2015 J Rickards Zinfandel

Tasting Notes

The aromatics make your mouth water with plush blackberry, black plum, mingling with hints of dried lavender. This wine continues to open up and evolve showing a more floral side and a touch of sage with time in the glass. The palate doesn’t disappoint, bringing sweet oak and vanilla, silky up front, easing into the elegant structure that speaks to the J Rickards Vineyard and is reminiscent of Cabernet from Alexander Valley. This has become a favorite around the winery; I’ve even heard it likened to “sunshine in a glass”. So open a bottle, and enjoy the sunshine!

Winemaker's Notes

This Vineyard is cut into the eastern hillside of “Chianti Mountain” in Alexander Valley. The 35-year old vines were field grafted with heritage clones from Dry Creek Valley, so long ago that no one can remember exactly which vineyard the cuttings came from. Whatever the clone, this steep hillside site is producing grapes with bright vibrant fruit, and bold powerful tannins. This exemplary bottling is a classic representation of its varietal and vineyard location.

Production Notes

245 cases

Cooperage Notes

Ten months in French Oak (two-thirds) and American Oak (one-third), one half new

Drinkable

3 to 5 years