Winemaker Notes
Blend: 98% Zinfandel, 2% Petite Sirah
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
The 2013 Dashe Florence Vineyard Zinfandel is a throwback Zin—to when the wines were usually elegant and well balanced dinner wines instead of the heavier, more alcoholic and almost sweet versions. This beautifully refined wine offers loads of brambleberries, a lively palate and a zesty finish. It is perfect with an oven-roasted pork tenderloin. Drinking very nicely now. (Tasted: May 16, 2016, San Francisco, CA)
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Connoisseurs' Guide
Harking back to an early part of Zinfandel’s history, this wine is intentionally lighter in ripeness and higher in pert acids than are most of its varietal siblings today. Its vital fruit is quite evident in aromas redolent of bright berries and a certain creamy richness, and that energetic stance continues from entry to finish once in the mouth. If anything, the acidity is going to stand out a trifle for those who want a fuller, fleshier wine, but, this one is both full of life and deep enough for use with red-sauced pastas now and over the next two to four years.
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.