Saini Apple Block Old Vine Zinfandel 2015
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Wilfred
Wong
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2015 Saini Vineyards Old Vine Apple Block is an excellent example of Dry Creek Zinfandel. TASTING NOTES: This wine is well-built and firm on the palate. Its aromas and flavors of blackberries and savory spices should pair it perfectly with a roast leg of lamb. (Tasted: April 23, 2019, San Francisco, CA)
Other Vintages
2014-
Robert
Parker
The Saini's are 4th generation Sonoma County grape growers that have been farming grapes in Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley for over 90 years. Renowned for their integrity, attention to detail and impeccable farming skills, it's their passion for quality coupled with their experience and familiarity with the land they farm that sets them apart from the rest. George Christie was born and raised in New Jersey and moved to Sonoma County in 1991 where he met his wife Tami, a lifelong resident of Healdsburg. They have been a part of the wine industry ever since and have worked with some of the most iconic wineries in California, such as Korbel, Buena Vista, Kenwood and Clos du Bois.
George Christie and Mike Saini have been friends for nearly 20 years. Many times over the years they talked about starting a wine brand of their own and in the Fall of 2008 those conversations became a reality with the harvest of their first grapes destined for the Saini Vineyards program.
Partnerships have been an integral part of the success for both the Saini's and the Christie's throughout the years and the Saini Vineyards wines are the next chapter in their story.
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.