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Wine Details
Price:
$18.99 per bottle
Description:
Fruit from Primativo and Mendocino Ridge clones harvested from the spectacular High Valley vineyards of Monte Lago and Terre Vermeil (2200–2400’ above sea level), provided the basis for this wine. The 2002 growing season produced low crop yields that contributed to the deep garnet color and added intensity and complexity to the wines. Individual lots were fermented separately in small stainless steel tanks for 7–10 days before pressing to preserve the fruit intensity and minimize excessive tannin extraction.
Tasting notes: Full aromas of ripe black raspberries are accented with hints of peppercorn and bay laurel. The palate shows a spiciness and toasty oak with soft tannins and medium body.
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Varietal Definition
Zinfandel:
Zinfandel is a variety of red grape planted in over 10 percent of California wine vineyards. DNA fingerprinting revealed that it is genetically equivalent to the Croatian grape Crljenak Kaštelanski, and also the Primitivo variety traditionally grown in the 'heel' of Italy. It is typically made into a robust red wine. Its taste depends on the ripeness of the grapes from which it is made. Red berry fruits like raspberry predominate in wines from cooler areas such as the Napa Valley, whereas blackberry, anise and pepper notes are more common in wines made in warmer areas such as Sonoma County. Many Zinfandels come from head pruned ‘Old Vines’. ‘Old Vine’ is generally understood to mean a vine that is more than 50 years old and that produces less than three tons per acre. ‘Head Pruning’ is an old European style of pruning that trains the vine into the shape of a goblet. It requires no wires or other complex trellis systems. Head pruning spreads the fruit uniformly along the vine and allows light penetration.In the USA a semi-sweet Rosé (blush-style) wine called ‘White Zinfandel’ has achieved widespread popularity. In fact, this popularity has so outstripped all other forms that many fans think there is actually a grape called “White Zinfandel” (there isn’t)!
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