2023 Russian River Valley "Saitone Vineyard" Zinfandel
99% Zinfandel
1% Carignan
Picked October 7th, one month later than in 2022, the fruit from these 128-year-old vines was fully destemmed and cold soaked for five days before inoculating with the local yeast Williams Selyem. The yeast choice seemed appropriate given that Williams Selyem owns the vineyard. Fermentation progressed faster than usual so the wine was pressed after only 13 days in tank. Aged in all French oak, 14% new. Unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Very dark magenta-ruby in color. Aromatically, a cornucopia of berry fruit – mulberry, olallieberry, elderberry, and a touch of blood orange. A light note of herbaceousness adds olfactory interest. Full-bodied on the palate, the wine exhibits tremendous concentration along with flavors of dark berries and black pepper. Laser-like acidity extends the finish and keeps the palate begging for more. Our finest, most compelling Saitone Vineyard Zinfandel to date. Alas, also the last. Enjoy from release through 2036. (MRO - 01/15/26)