Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Home Ranch Vineyard lies in Alexander Valley, Sonoma County. The wine is centered on the founding blocks planted by Edoardo Seghesio in 1895 and represents more than 125 years and five generations of family history.
Grapes
Blend proportions may vary by vintage. Latest published vintage (2023): 85% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, and 1% Carignane.
Vinification
The fruit was picked by hand during the cool early morning, delicately sorted, gently destemmed, and moved into small open-top fermenters without pumping. Fermentation included an indigenous yeast strain cultivated from Home Ranch Vineyard. Pneumatic punch-downs were used during a 9–12-day maceration, after which the free-run wine was drained to barrel. Malolactic fermentation finished in barrel over winter. The components were blended in spring and returned to larger vessels to retain fruit and energy while limiting oxidation. The wine was racked twice before blending and once to bottle, then bottled unfined.
Ageing
The wine matured for 16 months in a combination of 15% new French oak, 18% concrete tank, 30% French cask, 13% seasoned French-oak puncheons, and seasoned French-oak barrels for the balance.
Technical data
Alcohol: 15.5%. pH: 3.66. Titratable acidity: 5.4 g/L.
Tasting profile
Boysenberry and blackberry-pie aromas are layered with graham-cracker crust and warm baking spices. Ripe black cherry develops across the palate, supported by vibrant energy and a savory, mouthwatering saline quality. Fine, persistent tannins provide structure and finesse, leading to a long, flavorful finish with richness and balance.
Serving and pairing
Pair with roasted meats, stews, or grilled vegetables.
Vintage notes
The 2023 season began with abundant rainfall, saturated soils, and delays to vineyard work. Regenerative measures included adjusted timing of practices, maintaining active roots, vineyard crimping, and cover crops applied at 8,000–10,000 pounds per acre. A needs-based fungicide program reduced applications, while mechanical canopy lifting expanded to almost 200 acres. Cool nights, mild afternoons, and an absence of extreme summer heat supported an even harvest. The grapes were gathered from October 3 through October 9, 2023.
