1998 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel

From our Dry Creek Valley source, 109 year-old vines and low yields combined to produce some very ripe zinfandel in 1998. Excited by the intense fruit flavors but concerned that the elevated sugar levels could cause a problematic fermentation, we also picked some flavorful, though less ripe, petite sirah from an adjacent block and did a "field blend" in the fermentor. The decision paid off and after a long, moderate fermentation, the wine finished dry.

Tasting Note: This is an exceptionally rich, decadent zinfandel with dark color, low acidity, and copious black cherry aromas and flavors. It should be at its best 2 to 4 years from the vintage date. (MRO - 11/17/99 )