Winemaker Notes
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.
Scattered among the yellow hills, orchards and olive groves of the Hilltops region are some of Australia’s most friendly, down-to-earth wineries. While it’s a bit warmer than its northeastern neighbor, Orange, the cool summer nights and dry fall season in Hilltops allow relatively late harvest dates and thus the production of a wide range of wines. Hilltops produces powerful reds from Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz as well as charming Chardonnay and food-friendly Semillon.