2005 Russian River Valley "Carlo's Ranch" Zinfandel
98% Zinfandel
2% Mixed Black Varieties (Petite Sirah, Carignane)
From Celestino (Charlie) Papera's vineyard planted in 1934, yields were a respectable 1.3 tons to the acre. Picked October 25th, the grapes were cold soaked for 5 days before an uninoculated fermentation began. After 18 days on the skins, the wine was pressed to all French oak, 33% new, and aged for 15 months before being bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium dark to dark ruby-red. Fragrant, almost Burgundian aromas of raspberries, kirsch, and red currant are mixed with floral and spicy notes. Quite smooth and rich on the palate but at the same time vivacious and invigorating. While it can certainly be enjoyed now with appropriate foods, its sound acidity should ensure a long life. Drink mid-2008 through 2014. (MRO – 10/15/07)