2023 Sonoma Valley Zinfandel
57% Sonoma Valley Zinfandel, Old Hill Ranch
17% Sonoma Valley Zinfandel, Pagani Ranch
17% Sonoma Valley Zinfandel, Rossi Ranch
6% Sonoma Valley Grenache, Rossi Ranch
3% Sonoma Valley Alicante Bouschet, Pagani Ranch
Knowing that Carlisle was coming to an end, I decided to do something I’ve wanted to do for quite a while – create a blended Sonoma Valley Zin, analogous to our Russian River Valley Piner-Olivet Ranches Zin, that showcases the best attributes of Zinfandel from this historic growing area – peppery spice, dark blackberry, cherry, and plum fruit, and structure built more upon tannin as opposed to acidity. Combining old-vine fruit from Old Hill Ranch, Rossi Ranch, and Pagani Ranch, I am thrilled with the result and feel we’ve created an archetype Sonoma Valley Zin at a bargain price. Six percent new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium-dark to dark purple-garnet. A deep, concentrated nose of macerated black cherries, brown spices, briar, and rooibos tea. Totally captivating! Amply endowed on the palate with flavors of plum, cherry, cocoa powder, and black pepper. Tannins provide plenty of structure to ensure a long life and additional complexity through bottle aging. While not a vineyard designate, a wine every bit qualitatively equal. Enjoy this quintessential Sonoma Valley Zin from 2027 though 2038. (MRO - 01/15/26)