2018 Block 10 Zinfandel

Variety: 93% zinfandel, 5% petit verdot, 2% syrah

Appellation: Dry Creek Valley

Sensory Notes: Alluring and bold aromatics of kirsch and maraschino cherry are a worthy prelude to this wine’s rich texture and full body. Lively black raspberry teases the tongue, while soft floral notes linger in the background. This wine is silky smooth, with well-integrated tannins and lively acidity to match the full finish.

Vineyard Notes: The richest, most decadent of our barrel select series, Block 10 is a celebration of Bella’s old vine zinfandel. These storied, ancient vines produce just a handful of clusters each, resulting in ultra-concentrated grapes that make for a mouth-filling showstopper that Robert Parker has rated 96 points and calls “as good as Zinfandel can get ... world-class.” Another age-worthy wine from the 2018 vintage, we combined our estate block of hillside old vine fruit with zinfandel from the head-trained vines of renowned Maple Vineyards, the Louvau Vineyard Dry Creek Valley benchland fruit, and the dark, structured fruit from Rockpile.

SENSORY NOTES: Aromatics of rich Luxardo cherries are elevated by dark floral notes and huckleberries. On the palate, wild spicy herbal qualities and toasted cedar are embraced in a wine that both explodes with lively acidity and structured tannins, while also showing a delicate, nuanced side that promises greatness as the structure seamlessly integrates into the wine over time.

Cellar Recommendations: Enjoy this wine through 2029.