2020 Russian River Valley "Saitone Vineyard" Zinfandel
98% Zinfandel
2% Mixed Black Varieties (Carignan, Petite Sirah, Mission)
Just a stone’s throw north of Papera Ranch lies the old vines (planted in 1895!) of Saitone Vineyard. Historically, this vineyard was typically picked in mid to late October but in this very warm, early year, harvest commenced September 14th. Fully destemmed, the fruit was cold-soaked in tank for five days before inoculation for primary fermentation. Twelve days later, the wine was dry and pressed to all used, neutral French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium to medium-dark garnet-ruby. A very effusive, hi-toned nose of red cherries, blood orange, briar, and red licorice. Yum-yum to my tum-tum! Medium-full bodied, flavors of cherry and black raspberry show impressive clarity before giving way to a gently tannic finish. Once again, I’m reminded somewhat of Grenache grown in the sandy lieux-dits of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This should continue to develop in bottle. Enjoy from 2024 through 2029. (MRO - 07/18/22)