Passalacqua Winery - 2024 Maple Vineyard Zinfandel, Roy's Block

Tasting Notes

The Maple Vineyard is situated above Dry Creek Valley on a small bench which means the vines are up above the fertile valley floor. With less water and nitrogen available to them, these vines divert energy away from growing green leaves and into the Zinfandel berries. These perfectly placed vines are what make the Maple Vineyard so special, and it certainly shows in the glass. The nose is full of fresh berry compote. The palate is lush and full, mouthwatering with just the right amount of acidity. The finish is juicy with just a touch of vanilla and oak lingering in the end. A perfectly balanced wine from a beautifully balanced vineyard.

Winemaker's Notes

Tom and Tina Maple became grape growers by accident when they purchased their home in Dry Creek Valley in 1987. It had a very small, very ancient vineyard attached, and they became so enamored with tending these vines that, a year later, they purchased the vineyard surrounding their own. Through sheer will and enthusiasm, this dynamic duo taught themselves how to grow exceptional grapes and did so for 27 years. In 2015, Tom passed away. While Tina still lives on Maple Vineyard she has passed on the care and maintenance of these vines to the Rafanelli family, who continue the Maple Vineyards legacy. Tom and Tina had two loves in this world, Zinfandel and rescuing dogs. Many of their vineyard blocks are named for pups they rescued over the years. The block we source from is called Roy’s Block, named for Roy, a much-loved German Shepherd. The block was planted in 1990 from 2-year-old bench grafts using the Weise clone from Kenwood, on St. George rootstock.