Planted in 1915 on its own roots (i.e., not on rootstock), Kirschenmann Vineyard is located within a bend of the Mokelumne River in eastern Lodi (Victor to be precise).  Soils are fine sandy loam with an underlayment of chalk and sandstone approximately 4’ down.  This vineyard has been quite the education for me.  One, it’s taught me that not all of Lodi is blazingly hot.  The microclimate here is relatively cool.  In fact, in this vintage, this was one of our last Zinfandels to be picked.  The second thing this vineyard has taught me is that Lodi Zinfandel does not have to have the color and body of young vintage Port.  Kirschenmann produces a very feminine Zinfandel, one that brings to mind a perfumed Pinot Noir or perhaps even a fragrant Grenache à la Château Rayas.  A beautiful expression of Zinfandel!  Unfined and unfiltered.