Preston Vineyards Zinfandel 2016
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The 2016 bottling of our Estate Zinfandel is an homage to the old field-blends of the past; it has a higher percentage of Mourvedre (Mataro) and Petite Sirah than is typical for us, mostly due to the exceptional quality of those harvests as well. Aromas of raspberry and dark cherry combine with a savory note akin to alpine herbs. Similar fruit flavors on the palate are accompanied by a hint of dried flowers and all carried by a tangy, lively acidity.
Blend: 83% Zinfandel, 10% Mourvedre, 7% Carignane
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Wine Enthusiast
From the producer’s organic and biodynamically farmed vineyard, this is blended with 10% Mourvèdre and 7% Carignan, and is robust in oak, tannin and baking spice. Tart cherry and blackberry combine in tandem with black licorice and meaty elements that contrast well.
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Wine & Spirits
Brisk, clean and fragrant, this wine opens with some smokiness, which melds into the strawberry flavors and adds to their richness. Though the alcohol is listed at 14.2 (relatively restrained for Dry Creek zin), it’s apparent, suggesting this might be best served slightly chilled, with grilled lamb.
Other Vintages
2019-
Spectator
Wine
Unapologetically bold, spice-driven and jammy, Zinfandel has secured its title as the darling of California vintners by adapting well to the state's diverse microclimates and landscapes. Born in Croatia, it later made its way to southern Italy where it was named Primitivo. Fortunately, the imperial nursery of Vienna catalogued specimens of the vine, and it later made its way to New England in 1829. Parading the true American spirit, Zinfandel found a new home in California during the Gold Rush of 1849. Somm Secret—California's ancient vines of Zinfandel are those that survived the neglect of Prohibition; today these vines produce the most concentrated, ethereal and complex examples.
A multifaceted and highly reputable sub-region of Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley is responsible for a wide range of wine styles—both red and white. One of the smallest AVAs in California, Dry Creek Valley has a winning combination of ideal geography and climate. Fertile, well-drained soils create concentrated varietal character while long, warm days, bookended by cool nights, allow grapes to reach full phenolic ripeness and balance. The warm and welcoming appellation is home to a number of family-owned vineyards and wineries that place a strong emphasis on sustainable farming practices.
Zinfandel reigns supreme here and still produces in a great number of very old vineyards—often 100 years old or older. These old vines create a powerful, voluptuous and sultry wine unlike those of any other region. Sauvignon Blanc, the valley’s signature white grape, also performs exceptionally well. Many other varieties grow comfortably here, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah. Petite Sirah is often found in blends with Zinfandel.