Zinfandel 2021

Cycles Gladiator Zinfandel is crafted from vineyards located in California, primarily in coastal areas and inland valleys that benefit from a sunny climate tempered by oceanic influence. The grapes come from parcels selected for their ability to produce ripe fruit while retaining good freshness. The soils, a blend of alluvial, sandy, and clay deposits, offer efficient drainage and promote even ripening. This geological diversity allows the generous and spicy character of Zinfandel to fully express itself in the Cycles Gladiator style.

The Zinfandel grapes from Cycles Gladiator are harvested at optimal ripeness, then destemmed before fermentation in tanks, a process carried out to preserve aromatic intensity and fruit richness. Maceration is conducted in a way that extracts color and ripe tannins without harshness, with regular pump-overs. After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels to impart structure, complexity, and spicy notes, while retaining the juicy and luscious character of the grape variety.

This wine reveals notes of ripe black fruit , jammy raspberry , and juicy plum , enhanced by hints of black pepper , vanilla , and sweet spices , with a subtle toasty oak influence. The palate is ample and supple, supported by rounded tannins and moderate acidity that balances the richness of the fruit, while the warm and lingering finish leaves an impression of velvety texture and persistent spice .

In the United States, 90% of the wine produced comes from California. It was the influx of gold prospectors to California that revitalized the Californian wine industry in the mid-19th century, particularly in the Sonoma and Napa regions. At the beginning of the 20th century, there were 800 wineries. From 1919 to 1933, Prohibition decimated the vast majority of the Californian wine industry, so that by 1933, only 140 wineries remained. It wasn't until 1960 that the wine industry began to recover from Prohibition, and California was primarily known for producing fortified wines (in the style of Port). It was also in the 1960s that some of the most famous wineries were established (Mondavi, Heitz Wine Cellars, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, etc.). In 1976, a landmark event took place: the legendary tasting competition better known as the "Judgment of Paris." It pitted the greatest French wines against the new American upstarts. On May 24th, an unexpected result shook the wine world, as, to everyone's surprise, the United States emerged victorious. This competition, however, remains relatively unknown to the general public. Today, there is no doubt that the United States produces great wines. While California largely dominates the reputation of American wines with its excellent Zinfandels, the state of Oregon produces some of the best Pinot Noir in the world, and Washington State offers excellent Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.