Winemaker Notes
Eight Spur Zinfandel displays loads of blueberry and strawberry flavors, with hints of cinnamon, tobacco leaf, and vanilla. Medium-full bodied with mouthwatering acidity, and fine-grained tannins, the finish is opulent and long.
blend: 91% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Sirah
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
Dry Creek Valley is one of the oldest growing areas in California. By the late 1880s, the region had more than 800 acres of vineyards, the majority planted to Zinfandel. These traditionally planted Zinfandel blocks are distinctive. Short stout vines stand on their own with no trellis, free-standing, low to the ground and spur-pruned to eight canes to form well-spaced branches. Original farmers called this vine pruning technique “Eight Spur.
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Wine Spectator
An old-school Zin that smells fresh from the briar patch, this is ripe but not over the top, showing lively flavors of wild berry, licorice and savory cracked 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.
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.