Winemaker Notes
Varietal Content: 94% Zinfandel, 6% Petite Sirah
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
A zesty red, with raspberry and licorice aromas and appealing, sleek flavors of bright cherry, toasted herb and fresh black pepper. Drink now through 2020.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
My favorite wine is their 2013 Zinfandel Reserve from Dry Creek Valley (a blend of 94% Zinfandel and 6% Petite Sirah). Dark ruby/purple-tinged with notes of licorice, road tar, black raspberry, black cherry and spice box. The wine is medium-bodied, chewy, fleshy, and has lots of glycerin and headiness. The finished natural alcohol is 15.1% and the wine was aged eight months in about 20% new American oak and the balance neutral oak as well as a little bit of stainless steel.
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.