2003 "Z" Zinfandel
Massoni Ranch, Amador County
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Planted during prohibition, the gnarled, dry farmed vines grown on the Massoni Ranch in Amador County provide the grapes for the "Z" Zinfandel. Grapes from these vines are vinified using techniques developed specifically for the Massoni Ranch fruit. The result is a fully flavored yet elegantly styled wine with a smooth soft finish.
The grapes for the 2003 "Z" were harvested on the 22th & 29th of September. Following a weeklong fermentation in small open top fermentors, where the cap was mixed by hand, the wine was aged in both French and American oak barrels for fifteen months prior to being blended and bottled in early February 2005.
The 2003 vintage wine has a deep ruby color. The aromas are Classic Zinfandel; brairy raspberry and plum fruit with minerals and dust. The oak, while present, is a bit more restrained than previous vintages adding a subtle layer of vanilla to the red Zinfandel fruit. The flavors feature sweet raspberries carried on a rich velvety texture. Medium full bodied with good structure, the finish is lengthy. The combination of fruit, tannin and low pH of the 2003 edition of "Z" gives me the suspicion that this may be my longest lived Zinfandel yet.
Varietal Composition: 100% Zinfandel
14.2% Alc.
0.83 g/100ml TA 3.29 pH
Oak Regime:
48% American Oak
42% French Oak
10% Neutral American and French Oak
Released: April 1, 2005
998 Cases Produced
Suggested Retail Price: $22
