The nose is dark with Amarena cherry, toasty vanilla, and damson plum. This intensity of fruit also shows in the color which is deep and vibrant. I love that the palate comes through with a little brightness and pep. The depth on the nose gives way to ripe strawberry and cranberry compote, finishing long with hits of French oak.
In 1956 Charles and Helen Bacigalupi purchased 121 acres on Westside Road, in the Russian River Valley. Originally just 16 acres were planted to vines, but they planted more over the years envisioning the growing demand for premium wine grapes in this area. Grapes from their vineyard played a role in the turning point of how the world viewed wines from California. Their Chardonnay grapes made up 40% of the wine that won the famed 1976 Paris Tasting where Chateau Montelena’s Chardonnay triumphed over many acclaimed French wines. In addition to Chardonnay, the Bacigalupi family also grows beautiful Zinfandel. This cooler climate vineyard brings a bright fruit component to Zinfandel, and offers a more delicate mouthfeel while delivering soft spice undertones and delicious dark fruit components.
216 cases
Ten months in 100% French oak, one-third new
for 5 to 7 years from vintage