Winemaker Notes
The 2022 Old Vine Zinfandel opens with enchanting aromas of black cherry, spiced plum and boysenberry pie, complemented by hints of white pepper, coriander, and toffee. On the palate, layers of blackberry and dried cranberry mingle with dark chocolate, espresso and marzipan, framed by subtle notes of cedar and damp earth. This wine is beautifully complex, with a concentrated core of dark fruit and well structured tannins, offering depth and elegance in every sip.
Blend: 78% Zinfandel, 20% Petite Sirah, 1% Alicante Bouschet, 1% Carignane
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2022 Zinfandel Old Vine pours a dark magenta color and reveals notes of dusty cedar, pencil shavings, plum, and violets. Full-bodied, it stays light on its feet, with snappy acidity, ripe tannins, and a compact feel without weight. It’s a very charming Zinfandel.
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Wine Enthusiast
Rich, ripe aromas of spiced cherry and raspberry dominate the nose of this wine. Darker, spicier flavors of berry coulis, licorice, and purple flowers provide depth on the palate before echoes of slate, black pepper, and sage take over on the finish.
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.