Winemaker Notes
The 2019 I Spy Zinfandel is a vivid expression of the cult classic Black Sears Vineyard. Savory aromas of fresh cracked black pepper, and floral wild sage are first to rise from the glass. On the palate, flavors of just-ripe brambly berries compliment a taught and sinuous texture while a hint of spicey oak brings the wine to an elegant finish.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
With earthy components of barnyard, turned earth and forest, this mountain-grown wine from the famous site showcases power and intensity while remaining structured and complex. Robust tannins wrap around a core of blackberry, plum and mocha, finishing in a touch of white pepper.
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.
One of Napa Valley’s oldest wine growing subregions but last to gain appellation status, Calistoga occupies the northernmost section of the valley. Beginning at the foot of Mount St. Helena, its vineyards stretch over steep canyons and roll out onto the valley floor. The soils in Calistoga are volcanic, which means they are heavy in minerals, low in organic matter and allow good drainage for vine roots, creating less green growth and more concentration of flavor within the grape berries.
Summer days are very hot but most nights cool down with moist ocean breezes sneaking in over the Mayacamas Mountains or from Knights Valley to its northwest.
Cabernet Sauvignon is the area’s star variety with Zinfandel coming in a strong second, though the latter commands far less price per tonnage so continues to be outshined by Cabernet in vineyard acreage, save for some important exceptions.