This is our 9th release of this Zinfandel harvested from vines planted on our estate in 1997. We have 19 acres planted on St. George rootstock with the spacing of 6’ X 8’ Upright Globe system of head training and spur pruning. The shiny, black obsidian, which is an outcropping from the volcanic red soils, is evident on a moonlit night when the cougars are on the prey.
We hand-picked 7.1 tons Average Sugar: 26 BRIX Acidity: .59 g/100ml pH: 3.6
This Zinfandel was fermented in 4X4 bins for 10 days, pressed using a membrane press, and stored in 59-gallon French and American Oak barrels for 18 months.
The nose on this spicy Zinfandel is of black plum and hints of toasty oak. Flavors of black currants, berry fruits, and notes of roast linger in the background. The tannins are soft and the wine is well-balance with good structure for cellaring. Juicy overall; it pairs well with curried foods, BBQ, or cream cheeses.
“Juicy and light on its feet, with cherry and tart plum fruit that shows accents of cinnamon, spice and dried sage. Tannins sneak in on the finish. Drink now through 2016.”. –TF. Rated 88 points by Tim Fish at Wine Spectator.
Appellation: Red Hills Estate, Lake County
Elevation: 2300 feet
Harvested: September 10, 2008
Cooperage: French & American Oak Barrels
Alcohol: 14.5%
Released: January 2011
Cases Produced: 350 cases