Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
A throwback zin that takes a page from the past and present, the active and delicious 2013 Davis Family Vineyards Old Vine Zinfandel is an excellent example of how well the Russian Valley River does with this varietal. The wine, respecting the history of Zinfandel in this growing region area, has produced a pretty rich zin without sacrificing the wine's balance and structure. Deep ruby color; aromatic nose of berries and flowers, excellent intensity; medium to full bodied, well behaved on the palate, firm and fine sweet tannins keep it all together; dry, medium acidity, well balanced; bright berries and savory spice in the flavors; long finish, bright aftertaste with fine complex notes. (Tasted: January 22, 2016, San Francisco, CA)
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 standout region for its decidedly Californian take on Burgundian varieties, the Russian River Valley is named for the eponymous river that flows through it. While there are warm pockets of the AVA, it is mostly a cool-climate growing region thanks to breezes and fog from the nearby Pacific Ocean.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir reign supreme in Russian River, with the best examples demonstrating a unique combination of richness and restraint. The cool weather makes Russian River an ideal AVA for sparkling wine production, utilizing the aforementioned varieties. Zinfandel also performs exceptionally well here. Within the Russian River Valley lie the smaller appellations of Chalk Hill and Green Valley. The former, farther from the ocean, is relatively warm, with a focus on red and white Bordeaux varieties. The latter is the coolest, foggiest parcel of the Russian River Valley and is responsible for outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.