2014 Russian River Valley "Papera Ranch" Zinfandel
96% Zinfandel
4% Carignane
Planted in 1934 shortly after the repeal of Prohibition by Celestino Papera, this vineyard is a bit of an anomaly in that it contains much less in the way of mixed blacks than we typically see in vineyards of this era. And interestingly, the majority of the mixed blacks that are present is Carignane. Carignane is a late ripener and high in acidity making it a curious choice for this very cool site. Nevertheless, it seems to work, producing a powerfully elegant Zinfandel. Twenty percent new French oak. Filtered but unfined.
Tasting Note:
A nuanced, perfumed nose of confit fruits, sandalwood and rose petal. Bright, sleek and refined on the palate, reflecting both the vineyard’s prized position on the eastern edge of the Laguna de Santa Rosa (nature’s “air conditioner” for the Piner/Olivet area) and the precision derived from the high percentage of Zinfandel in this post-prohibition planting – a clean expression of the variety. Plum preserves and baking spices mingle on the palate, with nutmeg notes leading the charge on the finish. Stunning. Drink 2019 – 2030. (JCM – 07/18/16)