Bocce Zinfandel 2003
Winemaker Notes
According to law each head of household could make 200 gallons or four barrels equivalent of wine. Cesare chose the name Bocce for the crate's label after his favorite pastime. The label you see on the bottle is a replica of the label on the crates of grapes Cesare shipped.
Now that you understand the label, it is time to understand Rosa Mondavi, Cesare's wife. Rosa became interested in her grandson Michael's start into the wine business. She was concerned that he and his father were only going to make luxury style wines or to her way of thinking ‘special occasion' wines. She felt Michael needed to make a wine for everyday people (like herself) to drink, and most importantly it had to be good. Michael asked his Nonna (grandmother) to explain further. She said it has to be affordable enough for daily use and it has to be good enough for friends and family to ask for a second or even a third glass. If they do not want that second glass the wine is not very good. It was that simple.
Bocce wines are meant for everyday enjoyment with family and friends, and shared with a hearty meal and lively conversation.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!