Vinification Notes: Very select fruit from two neighboring vineyards, Big River Ranch and Todd Brothers ranch, was harvested at ideal ripeness, destemmed and crushed.” Each lot was handled separately, and fermentations were carried out in closed-top tanks, with pumpovers performed twice daily. Aging occurred in a combination of 20 percent new French and American oak barrels for 10 months.
Sensory Notes: An eminently drinkable, medium-bodied zinfandel, Bella Two Patch has become a cult favorite. It leads with aromas of dark cola, black raspberries and baking spice. The wine continues soft and succulent on the palate, finishing with flavors of blueberry and sweet oak that inspire cravings for another satisfying sip.
Vineyard Notes: Bella Two Patch is grown on two prized “patches” of exceptional vineyard land in northern Sonoma County. Encompassing 14 acres of zinfandel planted in 1905, the ancient, low-yielding vines of Big River Ranch produce superbly ripe, intense fruit, while the renowned Todd Brothers Ranch contains 50-year-old vines perched on a rocky, west-facing hillside.
Vintage Synopsis:Though yields were down, the 2008 growing season was a rewarding one for winegrowers in Sonoma County. As is often the case in low-yielding vintages, 2008 produced riper and more complex wines. A few heat spikes had wineries scrambling, but the return of cool weather and fog allowed the lion’s share of the fruit to remain on the vine long enough to develop full, ripe flavors.
Cellar Recommendation: Best from 2011 through 2014.
Strictly limited production. Only 700 cases produced. Retail price: $38