2007 Sonoma County Zinfandel
73% Sonoma Mountain Zinfandel, Ivy Glen Vineyard
11% Russian River Valley Zinfandel, Papera Ranch
10% Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, Gold Mine Ranch
6% Russian River Valley Alicante Bouschet, Montafi Ranch
After the Petite Sirah-heavy 2006 rendition, this year’s version is much more focused on Zinfandel with no Petite and only 6% Alicante Bouschet. Predominantly from the Ivy Glen Vineyard on the northeast face of Sonoma Mountain, many of the original vines planted in 1900 are still producing today. Aged in French oak, 20% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium-dark ruby. Fragrant, textbook aromas of red cherries, briar, and pepper. This wine shouts “I am Zinfandel! Hear me roar!” On the palate, medium-full to full-bodied with red berries and spice charging the way through the lip-smacking finish. An incredible wine at an even more incredible price. Optimum enjoyment should be between late 2010 and 2015. (MRO – 03/10/09)