Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Fruit comes from vineyards in Sonoma Valley, Russian River Valley, Alexander Valley and Dry Creek Valley. The 2024 blend is 55% estate-grown, certified-sustainable fruit and 45% fruit supplied through longstanding grower relationships. An average vintage draws on more than 150 individual lots, each vinified separately before blending.
Grapes
Blend proportions vary by vintage. Latest published vintage (2024): 87% Zinfandel, 7% Petite Sirah, 1% Syrah, 1% Carignane, 1% Mataro and 3% mixed red varieties.
Vinification
The grapes were hand-harvested in small lots and divided among more than 150 fermentations. Pumpovers, délestage, punchdowns and rotary fermentation tanks were used selectively to emphasize the character of individual vineyard parcels. Skin contact lasted 7–12 days. After settling to remove solids, the young wines were transferred to barrel to complete malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
The wine matured for 10 months in 7% new American oak and 93% neutral French and American oak barrels. It was racked once after malolactic fermentation and once more for blending and bottling.
Technical data
2024: 15% alcohol, pH 3.78 and total acidity of 6.1 g/L.
Tasting profile
Black raspberry and mixed-berry pie lead the aroma and continue onto a soft palate accented by baking spices and brambly heather. Pliable tannins provide support, while a gentle rise in acidity refreshes the finish and balances the warmth of the vintage with cooler-climate vibrancy.
Serving and pairing
Pair with short ribs, pork belly or gnocchi with Gorgonzola.
Vintage notes
The 2024 season began after a second consecutive winter of above-average rainfall: 37 inches, or 117% of average. Cool early conditions and replenished soil moisture supported balanced vegetative growth and extensive hand canopy work. Temperatures rose from late May, bringing warmer-than-average days but retaining Sonoma County's cool nights. Consistent conditions through June, July and August supported even development of sugars and phenolics. The broader harvest ran from August 27 to October 10; grapes for this wine were picked from August 30 through October 7, with most arriving in September. The resulting wine emphasizes regional character, fresh fruit and mature tannins.
