2004 Russian River Valley "Carlisle Vineyard" Zinfandel
86% Zinfandel
14% Mixed Blacks (Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir, and others)
Ya-hoooo! After miniscule yields in 2003, yields were way up in ’04 to a whopping .8 ton to the acre! Seriously, with yields this low, most sensible folks would tear up the vineyard and replant. Fortunately, we’re not sensible. This vineyard is truly one of the “Grand Dames” of Sonoma County. Picked October 5th, the must was cold soaked for 6 days before an indigenous fermentation. Aged 16 months in French oak, 33% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Dark ruby red, verging on opaque. Deep aromas of black raspberry, licorice, and white pepper. Once again, the “terroir” of Carlisle Vineyard shines brightly. On the palate, an explosion of black raspberry fruit intertwined with briary spice. While quite rich and full-bodied, surprisingly elegant and refined. Noble tannins on the finish dictate at least another year in bottle before enjoying. Drink this age-worthy Zinfandel from mid-2007 through 2010. (MRO – 11/1/06)