Sonoma County Old Vines Zinfandel 2021
Trade Tools
America / Sonoma County
There are strict criteria in the vineyard for fruit to qualify as old vines Zinfandel. The vines must be at least 50 years old (many are as old as 100) and they must be dry farmed and head trained without the benefit of trellising. These ancient, headpruned vines tend to produce small quantities of exceptionally concentrated fruit. The grapes are handpicked, crushed and then fermented in stainless steel tanks. After pressing, the wine is pumped into French and American oak barrels for aging, with additional bottle aging before release.
90 Points
Wine Spectator
2021 vintage
Harvest Note
The 2021 harvest began just a little early with the first fruit picked on August 18. Limited rainfall during the growing season produced slightly lighter crops but brought intense, concentrated flavor and color. Free from lingering heat waves, the consistent weather during the summer months helped maintain fruit acidity for brightness and balance. Harvest continued through the middle of October when the last of the fruit was picked.
Tasting Note
Flavors of raspberry preserves and boysenberry followed by spicy notes of licorice and peppercorn.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 83% Zinfandel, 17% Petite Syrah
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
PH: 3.6
ABV: 14.8%
AGING: 16 months, 100% French Oak, 20% New
Unique Selling Points
- A classic old vines Zinfandel—fruit comes from 50- to 100-year-old vines
- Dry-farmed, producing low yields with highly concentrated, intense flavors and aromas
- Vineyards in Sonoma Valley, Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley
- Matured for 16 months in 100% French Oak Barrels; 20% new oak
“With its classic combination of ripe fruit and spice, this wine is a tribute to old vine Zinfandel.”
Katie Madigan, Winemaker
About the Grape
Zinfandel
Zinfandel shows ripe, sweet aromas and flavors of black fruits (plums, raisins, dates), with pepper, spice and chocolate notes.
