Winemaker Notes
Predominately red-fruited, there is some underlying black fruit that adds depth. Notes of Asian five spice mix with dried herbs and minerals on the nose. In the mouth, the fireworks continue with an incredible balance of extract, tannin, and refreshing acidity. Red fruit flavors abound while minerals take over in the middle palate and finish with a surprising citrusy sensation. This is old-vine Zinfandel at its best!
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
From old vines planted in 1895 on Olivet Lane in the Russian River Valley, the medium to deep ruby-purple colored 2016 Zinfandel Saitone Estate Vineyard is gregariously scented of brambly fruits, crushed blueberries, marionberry, peach preserves and oodles of stone fruits—classic tricolored Zinfandel fruits—plus accents of potpourri, dried flowers, dusty earth, cinnamon stick and licorice. The light to medium-bodied palate offers impressive restraint, with firm, grainy tannins and seamless freshness on the long, spicy finish. 239 cases produced.
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 standout region for its decidedly Californian take on Burgundian varieties, the Russian River Valley is named for the eponymous river that flows through it. While there are warm pockets of the AVA, it is mostly a cool-climate growing region thanks to breezes and fog from the nearby Pacific Ocean.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir reign supreme in Russian River, with the best examples demonstrating a unique combination of richness and restraint. The cool weather makes Russian River an ideal AVA for sparkling wine production, utilizing the aforementioned varieties. Zinfandel also performs exceptionally well here. Within the Russian River Valley lie the smaller appellations of Chalk Hill and Green Valley. The former, farther from the ocean, is relatively warm, with a focus on red and white Bordeaux varieties. The latter is the coolest, foggiest parcel of the Russian River Valley and is responsible for outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.