2011 Napa Valley "Hayne Vineyard" Zinfandel
99% Zinfandel
1% Interplanted Petite Sirah, Trousseau, and Peloursin
Wow! Somebody pinch me! Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine we would be producing a Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel. And yet, here it is. For those of you unfamiliar with this vineyard, the Hayne Vineyard lies on an alluvial fan at the base of Spring Mountain in Napa Valley. Planted in 1903, it is considered by many to be the crown jewel of old-vine vineyards in the valley. The fact that it even exists today, having not succumbed to Cabernet Sauvignon, is a testament to the amazing quality of wine from these historic, impeccably farmed vines. (Unfortunately, a portion of the vineyard purchased by a large Napa Valley grower was ripped out last year and will likely be replanted to... yep, you guessed it, Cabernet Sauvignon.) Picked September 30th. All French oak, only 27% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Saturated ruby-red. A very deep, aristocratic nose of raspberry, cherry, bittersweet chocolate, spice, and mint. Like so many of our 2011s, a beautiful seamless and creamy texture. Flavors of cherry, spice, and earth. Very persistent on the finish with ripe tannins and harmonious acidity framing the wine nicely. You can really taste the nobility of this vineyard. Enjoy this Grand Cru Zinfandel from late 2013 through the end of 2019. (MRO – 01/17/13)