Sonoma County Old Vines Zinfandel 2020
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.
91 Points
Wine Enthusiast
2020 vintage
Gold Medal
The Press Democrat
2020 vintage
Harvest Note
The 2020 growing season enjoyed near-perfect growing conditions. With minimal rain this winter, the vines were awakened with ideal, moderate spring-time temperatures and no frost threat to the developing buds. Veraison occurred 7-10 days earlier than previous years due to the temperate weather. Even daytime temperatures and cool nights throughout the summer months with a few short-lived heat spikes allowed for excellent flavor development.
Tasting Note
Rich aromas of fresh picked berries and toasty spices are met with concentrated flavors of raspberry preserves, pomegranate arils, wild fennel seed and dried cranberry. A lift of acidity keeps it balanced and bright from start to finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 80% Zinfadel, 20% Petite Sirah
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
ABV: 15%
AGING: 18 months, 100% French Oak, 20% New
Unique Selling Points
- 91 Points, Wine Enthusiast - Jim Gordon
- 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 18 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.
