Nose
this wine offers aromas of rose petal and violets, raspberry, cherry compote and boysenberry.
Palate
Medium bodied, the wine has lively acidity with brambly blackberry flavors and a spicy finish with hints of sandalwood, allspice, vanilla and cocoa.
Growing Conditions
Expectations were high for the 2013 vintage, following the success of 2012, and Mother Nature did not disappoint. Warm spring weather led to an early bloom, and the lack of rainfall during the period allowed the vines to set another large crop. The vines ripened their crop early, retaining bright acidity and beautiful flavors at relatively low sugars.
Winemaking
Our estate Black Glass Vineyard Zinfandel takes its name from the obsidian that surfaces in the vineyard after each rain. Much of this obsidian was shaped into spear points or arrowheads 150 years ago. Zinfandel seems to thrive here—perhaps the black obsidian captures heat that helps lets the vine roots develop.
In the winery we treat our Zinfandel as gently as our Sangiovese. We ferment in open top tanks and gently punch down twice each day. When the fermentation is complete we mature the wine in neutral French oak barrels.
Appearance
A brilliant medium garnet in color
Food Pairing
Enjoy with: an aged cheddar or apricot-laden Stilton cheese; pancetta; salami; grill eggplant with tomatoes, zucchini and bell peppers for a classic ratatouille; or baby back ribs off the grill would be a mouthwatering pairing.
