2011 Sonoma Valley "Pagani Ranch" Zinfandel
92% Zinfandel
8% Mixed Black Varieties (Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir, Petite Sirah, Carignane)
The ancient vines of Pagani Ranch excelled in this difficult vintage. The 1895 section of Zinfandel was fully ripe before any threat of rain and was picked in fine condition on October 1st. However, the thicker-skinned Alicante Bouschet and Grand Noir (planted in 1920) needed more time so were left to hang until October 18th. Both portions were fermented indigenously and the following spring, after malolactic fermentations were complete, we determined the optimum blend of 92% Zinfandel and 8% Alicante/Grand Noir. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium to medium-dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of cherry, cola nut, dark chocolate, and just a hint of vanilla. Very sexy! On the palate, voluptuous, velvety, full-bodied. By no means over the top. Just very well-balanced, pure, clean Zinfandel. While more approachable than most of our other 2011 Zinfandels, this too should age well. Enjoy from release (if you prefer youthful flavors and aromas) through 2020 (if you prefer more secondary characteristics and nuance). (MRO – 07/18/13)