Rancho Zabaco, one of the original Mexican land grants in Northern Sonoma, crosses over portions of Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley – one of the areas in Sonoma County from which our grapes are sourced.
The 2008 harvest presented many challenges including frost, heat, drought, and wind. However,
most producers were able to overcome these trials to produce a crop that was smaller than usual, but
of very high quality. The early growing season was characterized by very dry weather and then frost
hit in April, which was the worst frost reported in decades. As the vines were blooming in May, an
early heat wave caused the vines to set a smaller crop than normal. The summer months were fairly
moderate and warm, with an early harvest beginning in August. Another heat wave hit in early
September which increased sugar levels rather quickly and left winemakers frantically rushing to pick
the ripening grapes. Cooler weather came in late September and slowed harvest. The region was
fortunate to avoid rain until late October as the harvest was winding down. Overall, the crop was
smaller versus the 2007 harvest, but the fruit was balanced and of high quality.
Once the Zinfandel wine grapes were harvested, they were brought into the winery and were destemmed, but not crushed, resulting in 20%-30% whole berry fermentation. Partial whole berry fermentation minimizes the possibility of extracting harsh, bitter tannins from the grape skins and seeds, resulting in concentrated, fresh, and forward raspberry-like flavors in the finished wine. To add color and flavor concentration, the grapes were cold soaked for one day at 60°F, which was followed by four to six days of fermentation with maximum temperatures of 88°F. Five to seven days of skin contact contributed to a deep ruby color that visually hints at the ripe fruit flavors of the wine. After primary fermentation was complete, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation to soften the acids and tannins. The wine was aged on its lees to enhance the mouthfeel and then was filtered prior to bottling.
The 2008 vintage of Sonoma Heritage Vines delivers an abundance of black fruit and spice aromas, demonstrating the classic and distinctive characteristics of Zinfandel. The soft, plummy, and jammy flavors and textures make this wine not only approachable, but also versatile, allowing it to be paired with a wide range of foods.
Apellation: Sonoma County
Varietal Content: 89% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Syrah
Titratable Acidity: 0.61g/100ml
Alcohol: 14.7%
Residual Sugar: 0.36g/100ml
pH: 3.68
Rancho Zabaco wines are available for purchase online at TheBarrelRoom.com.
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