2018 Flatridge Ranch Zinfandel, Sonoma Coast
Tasting Notes
The 2018 Zinfandel boasts a captivating deep red hue, hinting at its richness and complexity. Aromas of warm notes of vanilla, infused with the exotic allure of Chinese 5-spice and the sweetness of marionberry weaving throughout. The palate is enveloped by the wild allure of bramble and black cherry, while dried coconut and cardamom add a subtle yet tantalizing exotic twist.
Retail: $40
Vineyard
Flatridge Ranch is home to our small planting of Zinfandel, a passion project for Mark Trione. Sitting on a sprawling property that has been piecemealed together over decades by the Trione family, Flatridge is more of a wilderness preserve than a vineyard. What was once slated for logging, the ranch is now home to endless game trails, creeks, and mountain peaks spanning 11,000 acres. Only 9 of these acres are planted vineyards overlooking the Pacific Ocean just nine miles to the west and reaching an elevation of 1,200 feet. Flatridge Ranch is without a doubt a very special place. Certified Sustainable in 2017 (CCSW)
Vintage
The 2018 harvest began in earnest the second week of September, which is considered normal in most years, but for the past three or four harvests it would seem late. A moderate summer, leading to a moderate fall weather pattern allowed for full flavor development across all varieties.
Winemaking
Due to the nature of Zinfandel being a thin-skinned grape, we treat this wine much like our Pinot noir. Fermented in our open top tanks, the grapes are gently punched down throughout active fermentation. After around two weeks, the fermented wine is drained off the skins and sent to a selection of American oak barrels where it remains until being bottled.
Oak: 100% American | Aging: 15 months
