At the turn of the 20th century, Zinfandel’s popularity was unrivaled as the primary grape for home and commercial use.

More than a century later, we are fortunate to still have some of these old vineyards. More than half of our 300 acres of vineyards are planted to Zinfandel, which includes some of the oldest plantings in the county. While the BATF governs most wine labeling, it has no classification for old vines. Our benchmark is 60 years and older. Something ethereal happens to Zinfandel with age. Younger vines can be pruned and thinned to mimic old vines, and while they can match old vines’ color and flavor, the distinctive palate weight and natural acidity is elusive to all but the most venerable Zinfandel vines.

This wine comes from old head-pruned vineyards in Alexander and Dry Creek valleys. The average age of these vines is approximately 90 years old. Older vines yield less fruit. However, the de-vigorized, low-yielding vines produce more intense fruit.

This wine combines spicy, lush black fruit from Alexander Valley with cooler Dry Creek Valley fruit that offers structure and Zinfandel’s classic briary and raspberry flavors. Each vintage, the best lots of Zinfandel over 60 years old are chosen to make this wine. Components of this blend come from Cortina, Home Ranch and San Lorenzo. The blend varies each vintage so that Winemaker Ted Seghesio can create the most complete wine possible.