Rossi Ranch – Sonoma Valley

Planted in 1910 by the Rossi Family, this must be one of the most picturesque vineyards in Sonoma County. Completely dry farmed and organic, there are a variety of hills, undulations, and exposures, all surrounded by a mix of oak and pine/fir forest. While predominantly zinfandel, there is still a fairly large percentage of alicante bouschet, grand noir de la Calmette, and lenoir. The petite sirah, unfortunately, was destroyed by deer. (Oddly, deer have a real appetite for petite sirah leaves.)

Although further inland from our Russian River Valley sources, this vineyard is in a very cool microclimate, often necessitating October picking. The wine from this ranch reflects the wildness surrounding the vineyard. The aromas and flavors exhibit a briary, peppery, spiciness intertwined with the smell of the native plants in the vineyard. Rossi’s own version of garrigue if you will!

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