One of our perennial Zin-credible favorites is back with a bold new vintage!

The desolate AVA of Moon Mountain is a special place that quickly captivates the visitor. Though recognized since the early ‘80s and adorning many labels since, it was not until 2013 that it was granted the official American Viticultural Area status. It is as remote as the Western backside of Napa Valley’s prized Mount Veeder AVA. While the Sonoma Valley extending below was first planted in the early 1800s by Spanish missionaries, it took until later that century for settlers to venture up to the rugged 2,000+ feet of hills with howling cougars. Today, we bring you a wild mountain Zin from Dan Cellars, made from Los Chamizal Vineyard fruit, a trusted vineyard source for the likes of Deerfield Ranch, Gauthier, Kokomo, Haywood, along with many others who truly appreciate the prized high elevation fruit grown here.

Deep shades of maroon and magenta melding like a moonless night just past sunset. Complex, earthy blackberry and bramble aromas elevate the nose, with saddle leather and spice box following. Briary wild berries, black cherry, licorice, and fresh cracked pepper, and sandalwood virtually explode with deep and rich flavors on the palate. Ripe and rugged tannins showcase a unique sense of place with echoing blueberries on the appealingly persistent finish. Pair with grilled sausages, veggies, and fruits, heightened with a liberal serving of exotic spices.

This unique micro-climate region receives less rain and is less influenced by the fog making this warmer AVA ideal for Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rhône varieties. Peter Haywood’s highly reputable Los Chamizal vineyard is located in a small isolated valley near the town of Sonoma in the foothills. It’s a stunning setting with vineyards covering all aspects of the box canyon, providing slopes with both morning and afternoon sun, as well as dramatically different soil types across the topography. If you ever make it up there to soak in the stunning views that expand to San Francisco on a clear day, make sure to visit Monte Rosso, the oldest vineyard on Moon Mountain.

Here’s what the wine press has to say:

Gold Medal - 2016 San Francisco International Wine Competition