Winemaker Notes
Cosentino Winery is renowned for creating the first designated and licensed Meritage wine, Bordeaux inspired blend that set the standard that others would follow in Napa Valley.
Cosentino Winery made its first wines with its inaugural vintage released in 1981. In 1989 Cosentino released “The Poet”; one of America’s first designated and licensed Meritage wine. Shortly after in 1990 THE Series was introduced with THE Zin, showcasing the best grapes from the Lodi AVA and paving the way for THE Series of wines. THE Series is now Cosentino's largest volume collection of wine from the Lodi AVA.
Today Cosentino Winery has grown in quality and reputation and continues to gain recognition for innovative winemaking. After over 35 years of winemaking, Cosentino's commitment to the future is still focused on producing quality ultra-premium wines.
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.