Zinke Viognier 2012
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While influenced by tradition, we are paving our own path in the vineyard and the cellar in pursuit of the unattainable—perfection. With fruit sourced from the grand crus of the central coast, our wine practically makes itself. Optimal ripeness, hand sorted fruit, small lot fermentations, stem inclusion, co-ferments, and the proper formula of oak and time embody our winemaking philosophy. Although influenced by those before us, our wines never imitate, and always inspire. Our wines harmonize with all genres of food, but the ideal pairing is with friends, family, music, and laughter. We hope you have as much fun enjoying our wines, as we do making them.
Full-figured and charmingly floral, Viognier is one of the most important white grapes of the northern Rhône where it is used both to produce single varietal wines and as an important blending grape. Look for great New World examples from California, Oregon, Washington and cooler parts of Australia. Somm Secret—Viognier plays a surprisingly important role in the red wines of Côte Rôtie in the northern Rhône. About 5% Viognier is typically co-fermented with the Syrah in order to stabilize the color, and as an added benefit, add a subtle perfume.
With a dry and mild climate cooled significantly by moist ocean fog and breezes, Santa Barbara County is a grape-grower’s dream. Part of the larger Central Coast appellation, Santa Barbara is home to Santa Maria Valley and Santa Ynez Valley. The conditions here provide an opportunity for nearly effortless production of high-quality cool-climate Central Coast wines. This is also the site of the 2004 film Sideways, which caused Pinot Noir’s popularity to skyrocket and brought new acclaim to the region.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the stars of Santa Barbara, producing wines marked by racy acidity. Crisp Sauvignon Blanc and savory Syrah are also important. The region is home to many young and enthusiastic winemakers eager to experiment with less common varieties including Chenin Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, Trousseau Gris, Gamay and Cabernet Franc, making it an exciting area to watch.