2019 Russian River Valley "Papera Ranch" Zinfandel
96% Zinfandel
4% Mixed Black Varieties (Carignan, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc)
Kitty-corner from Mancini Ranch, at the intersection of Piner and Olivet roads, lies Papera Ranch, planted in 1934 by Celestino (aka Charley) Papera. Unlike many other old-vine Piner-Olivet vineyards, most blocks of Papera Ranch are largely Zinfandel with only a sprinkling of Carignan. As a result, Papera is always more red-fruited in character compared to the black and/or blue fruits of Montafi, Mancini, and Carlisle. Picked over two dates, October 4th and October 10th, all fruit was fully destemmed and cold soaked for five days before inoculation for fermentation. Aged in all French oak, 19% new, and bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium to medium-dark ruby. A heavenly bouquet of peach, raspberries and cherries nearly overwhelms the senses. It’s hard to stop smelling this wine! On the palate, slightly richer and more darkly fruited than the lovely 2018 but with plenty of acidity, this wine never feels heavy or out of balance. Finishes quite clean and long with very fine tannins. Enjoy from release (if you like your wines young) through 2028. (MRO - 07/18/21)