Winemaker Notes
Rich and full with bright acidity and fresh fruit notes. Creamy caramel roundness emphasizes the spicy backnotes and the juicy fruit finishes with a touch of pepper. Sonoma is one of the best recognized homes of Zinfandel grapes and we source from some incredible sites focusing on the legendary Dry Creek, Russian River and Alexander Valleys. Hilltop and benchland sites in these appellations contribute elegant spice, jammy berry fruit and rich tannin. Lake County vineyards enjoy very warm afternoons and bring bright red fruit character to the wine including cherry and strawberry notes. Solano–not often thought of for Zinfandel–brings a signature pepper spice along with fruit flavors of French plum, boysenberry and blueberry.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A California zin with pretty ripe-raspberry and vanilla character. Medium body with soft tannins and a fruity finish. Nicely done. Drink now.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!