Winemaker Notes
2019 saw a wet spring after a delightfully wet winter, and vines responded with abundant growth. Managing canopies in the vineyard for air flow and breaking out our trusty sorting table on the crushpad were crucial to keeping the clusters pristine and botrytis-free going into their tanks. These efforts paid off in a focused, energetic zinfandel that shows great purity of fruit and hints at this complex grapes elusive savory side. Aromatically alive with intense red and dark berry notes (some ripe, some less so), accented by cedar, dried tobacco leaf and some dark pepper. A burst of blood orange flavor arrives to complement the same aromatic notes on the palate, building to a quenching, mineral finish.
Blend: 94% Zinfandel, 6% Mataro
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
Brambly and zesty, with expressive black cherry, licorice and roasted sage flavors that build tension toward medium-grained tannins.
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.