Winemaker Notes
The 2017 Folie à Deux Zinfandel Red Wine is produced in the Dry Creek Valley of California. The Zinfandel wine opens with expressive bramble berry, blueberry, ripe strawberry, cocoa powder and black pepper, framed by hints of cherrywood smoke and clove aromas. Robust flavors of juicy, luscious berry and concentrated raspberry jam are accented with fig notes. Structured with velvety tannins, this Zinfandel has a filling palate and a soft, lingering finish.
For an excellent pairing, serve this wine with braised pork topped with Sunday Gravy, smoked brisket or maple-glazed carrots.
This bottle of wine has 15% alcohol by volume.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A very attractive, pure Zinfandel with crushed-berry and cherry aromas and flavors. Some raisin character. It’s full-bodied with light tannins and loads of fruit. Alcohol is high, too. But impressive nonetheless.
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Wine Spectator
Plump, with zesty raspberry, toasty, spice and licorice flavors that finish on a snappy note.
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.