2011 Zinfandel, Miljenko’s Old Vine

Miljenko “Mike” Grgich’s home over-looks this 34-acre vineyard in Calistoga where the few rows of ancient Zinfandel vines that produce this wine were planted more than 100 years ago on St. George rootstock. Its northeast exposure catches plenty of morning light but is shaded from the hot late afternoon sun while the vineyard’s gravelly loam soil allows the roots to reach deep. We farm all of our vineyards naturally, without artificial pesticides or herbicides, and they are certified organic.

We aged the wine in large puncheons so that the oak supports, yet reveals, the concentrated fruit created by our old vines. This full-bodied, aromatic Zinfandel is bursting with red and blackberries and a hint of black pepper on the long finish. The wine’s concentrated flavors and smooth tannins make it the perfect partner for grilled meats, such as leg of lamb or hanger steak, and rich cheeses like aged Gouda.