Winemaker Notes
The 2022 vintage is definitely in the riper than usual spectrum of flavors and aromas due to the warmer than normal weather patterns in 2022. The wine has intense varietal aromas of dark cherry, plums, blackberry jam and a hint of violets. The fine oak barrel aging brings in subtle aromas of vanilla, maple syrup, cocoa beans and slight toast. The mouth feel is solid, with full body and very soft and elegant tannins that accentuate the wine’s long and juicy finish with moderate acidity. Zinfandels when balanced are very versatile food pairing wines with broad range and this wine will satisfy your palate with many of your favorite dishes. The wine is delicious now but with some patience and proper aging in 2-5 years it will be even better.
Blend: 83% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Sirah, 5% Syrah, 2% Carignane, 1% Merlot
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Red-fruited aromas of maraschino cherries, Damson plums, Jolly Rancher candy and potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and balanced acidity, giving sweet notes of raspberry coulis, baking spices an dried herbs. Oddly sweet. Drink now.
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.
Nearly a northern extension of Napa Valley, Alexander Valley starts just north of the small, Knights Valley, and is just a few minutes drive from the Napa town of Calistoga. It is Sonoma County’s hottest AVA. But the Russian River, which runs through the valley, creates cooler pockets and its soft, alluvial soil is ideal for grape growing, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. In fact, some believe that Alexander Valley Cabernets truly rival the best from Napa Valley and many of the heavy-hitter producers have largely invested here.
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes up over 50% of plantings, Merlot and old vine Zinfandel thrive here. Ample, fleshy Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominate white wine production. Some old-vine plantings of Grenache have also been discovered and more recent experiments with Sangiovese and Barbera show great promise.