Old Vine Zinfandel 2021

Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley and Alexander Valley, Seghesio Family Vineyards benefit from the refreshing influence of Pacific breezes and diverse soils of gravel, silt, and clay. Deep-rooted old Zinfandel vines are spread across several historic parcels in Sonoma County, creating a mosaic of micro-terroirs. This diversity of locations, elevations, and exposures allows for consistent ripening, natural concentration, and a true expression of the character of this iconic California grape variety.

The Zinfandel grapes, sourced from old vines, are harvested at optimal ripeness, then destemmed and fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the aromatic intensity and purity of the fruit. Extended maceration allows for the extraction of color, structure, and concentration. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels, primarily French with some American oak, to impart complexity, a velvety texture, and spicy notes while respecting the generous and profound character of this iconic American red wine.

This wine reveals notes of ripe black fruit , raspberry , and black cherry , enhanced by spicy touches of pepper and licorice , as well as woody nuances of vanilla and cocoa . Fresher accents of dried flowers and orange zest add complexity. On the palate, the wine is full and velvety, supported by ripe yet structured tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, juicy, and slightly spicy finish.

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.