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Amapola Creek Vineyard Our 2006 Zinfandel’s unique character derives from four-plus decades of winemaking expertise combined with the mountain terroir of historic Monte RossoVineyard and its famous red soils. These 115-year-old vines normally yield a mere one to one-and-a-half tons per acre. Their distinctive fruit is enhanced by the mineral-rich, well-drained, decomposed volcanic ash soils and by the cooling breezes of San Pablo Bay. The high elevation of the vineyard exposes the fruit to additional sunlight, ensuring consistent ripening. Tight 8x8-foot vine spacing, diligent pruning and dry farming techniques also concentrate the flavors of Monte Rosso grapes. Vintage After a cool, wet spring that delayed bud break, the 2006 vintage set a good crop before late May brought more rainfall. Moderate June weather gave way to a July heat spell that included a 116°F. spike on the 16th. After a short cooling period, the grapes were harvested on September 26, 2006. Winemaking At harvest, the grapes are hand-picked and de-stemmed but not crushed. The newly fermented grapes are pressed at a gentle pressure slighter than that of a human fist and then aged for 18 months in a combination of new and seasoned French and American oak barrels. We neither fine nor filter. Tasting Notes The gnarly old vines at Monte Rosso Vineyard naturally produce very limited yields, usually resulting in extremely concentrated wines. The cooler spring of 2006, however, resulted in a completely different but delightful style Zinfandel. Lighter in mouth-feel than the 2005, but still elegantly balanced in fruit and tannins, the 2006 has bright racy red fruits with abundant ripe black raspberry and Bing cherry on the palate. A hint of blueberry gives flourish to the finish. In the bouquet, the wild berry aromas are interwoven with delightful hints of black pepper and clove. Drink now or hold for 5-10-plus years. $40.00 per bottle |
