Gold Medal - 2015 Orange County Wine Society Competition
It is no secret that prohibition very nearly destroyed the wine industry in California. Vines in some areas took seventy or more years to recover to pre-prohibition levels. For this reason it is always exciting to drink gnarly head pruned Zinfandel from vineyards planted in those days.
Starr Road Vineyard originated in the year of 1920. One wonders what the original growers were thinking, planting just after alcohol had been banned, but whatever their plan, the result is that we have amazing wine coming from vines that are 100 years old.
This Old Vine Russian River Valley Zinfandel is deep ruby in color, with aromas of mixed berries, vanilla, cherry, and toasty oak on the nose. The palate is lush and ripe, with flavors of blueberry, blackberry, plum, and vanilla. There is just a hint of herb, or perhaps tobacco. Spicy, and with good acid to balance out the considerable richness and extraction. This wine pairs nicely with grilled meats, or even solo by the glass. Aged to perfection and ready to impress.
Varietal: Zinfandel
Vineyard: Starr Road Vineyard, planted in 1920
Appellation: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
Aging: 18 months, new and used America and French Oak.
Alcohol: 15.5%
Production: 450 Cases
90 Points
Ruby-plum core with a light purple rim in the glass. The palate opens with cranberry, cherry fruit and wood spice dominate. Cherry and plum notes pump through with a medium-bodied texture. Smooth tannins and soft finish showcase its layered complexity.
92 Points
Aromas of red raspberry, jammed dark fruit, cinnamon spice and clove. Hints of sliced ripe plum, black tea and lavender oil adds to its complexity. Flavors of blueberry, elderberry, and cranberry are enhanced with oak spice and baking notes from the barrels. These flavors marry with soft tannins for a long and mouthwatering finish.
92 Points
Juicy blackberries and black cherries accented by mint and chocolate. Full-bodied, deeply colored, with a hint of white pepper, dried herbs and toasted bread. Delivers a substantial mid-palate of dark fruits, black tea, baked cherry, fruit preserves and licorice. Sophisticated and sumptuous. A great example of the varietal, brooding with depth and complexity. Notes of toast and oak, with integrated tannins and textural polish on the finish.
