Robust black cherry and pomegranate aromas are laced with hints of white pepper, Occidental dust, and cinnamon. The palate entry centers on flavors of black cherry, bramble and ripe strawberry, while smooth, round tannins anchor a great depth and concentration of flavor. The wine’s excellent balance makes this Zinfandel a versatile food wine, and perfect for high end by-the-glass offerings.
We employed extraction methods typical of our claret style of winemaking: the fruit was cold-soaked for two days, pumped over vigorously during fermentation, and then the new wine stayed on the skins for 20 days of extended maceration. After pressing, the wine was racked to French oak, mainly Francois Freres and Tonnelleries O, where malolactic fermentation occurred. Quarterly rackings softened the tannins and integrated the oak. After 19 months of oak aging, the wine was bottled with no fining and minimal filtration.
Robust black cherry and pomegranate aromas are laced with hints of white pepper, Occidental dust, and cinnamon. The palate entry centers on flavors of black cherry, bramble and ripe strawberry, while smooth, round tannins anchor a great depth and concentration of flavor. The wine’s excellent balance makes this Zinfandel a versatile food wine.