2015 Sonoma Valley "Pagani Ranch" Zinfandel
91% Zinfandel
6% Alicante Bouschet
3% Petite Sirah
We picked the Zinfandel component from vines planted in 1895 on September 19th. Six days later we came back for the Alicante Bouschet component from the eastern half of the ranch planted in 1920. After malolactic fermentation the following spring, we did blending trials and determined the best wine was a blend of 91% Zinfandel. 6% Alicante Bouschet, and a dash of Petite Sirah from neighboring Rossi Ranch for mid-palate structure. As usual, bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium translucent ruby-garnet. Very hi-toned, explosive aromas of raspberries, blood orange, and briar. Truly smells like a raspberry and orange were crossed to produce a whole new fruit. Medium-full bodied with flavors of pomegranate, red currant, and cherry. Texturally, very elegant and very sophisticated. The lumberjack has been gentrified! This wine will be best from 2019 to 2025. (MRO – 07/18/17)