2005 Russian River Valley "Pietro's Ranch" Zinfandel
82% Zinfandel
18% Mixed Black Varieties (Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Grenache, Carignane)
With the high percentage of mixed blacks, this was our last Zinfandel to be picked in this cool vintage, coming in on October 27th. Yields from this 1905 vineyard were approximately .8 ton to the acre. Destemmed but not crushed, the must was cold soaked for five days before the start of fermentation. Pressed on November 14th to all French oak, 30% new. The wine was given a light fining but bottled unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium-dark to dark ruby garnet. Brooding, dark aromas of blackberry, black cherry and white pepper. On the palate, while certainly dry, terrific “sweetness” of fruit, finishing with refreshing tannins and acidity. A better balanced wine than the 2004. Drink from early 2008 through 2012. (MRO – 3/1/07)