2018 Rock's Edge Zinfandel

VINIFICATION NOTES: An ideal 2018 growing season produced Rockpile fruit possessing bright aromatics, firm tannins and good acidity. Westphall and Jack Florence Jr. vineyards were hand-picked at early morning on September 22nd and Rocky Ridge Vineyard on September 26th. The fruit was sorted by hand, destemmed and placed into closed-top tanks for an average of 28 days fermentation with twice-daily pumpovers. After fermentation, the wine was barreled down into a combination of 86% French and 14% American oak, with 29% new oak to age for 16 months.

VINEYARD NOTES: Rockpile appellation spreads high above Lake Sonoma on thin, rocky soils and steep sloping vineyards. Rockpile appellation is perched on a steep hillside at 1,500 feet in elevation and has unique clay and large loamy soil. Jack Jr. vineyard experiences strong winds, causing its dark zinfandel fruit to achieve thicker skins and greater tannin structure. Westphall Vineyard has ideal western sun exposures, red volcanic soil and steep slopes—all of which contribute to the character and complexity of this wine.

SENSORY NOTES: With alluring aromatics that are just beginning to open up, the 2018 Rock’s Edge zinfandel showcases black cherries, cassis and milk chocolate. A full-bodied, structured mouthfeel is met with underlying black pepper notes and a brightness that leads into a balanced finish

CELLAR RECOMMENDATION: Enjoy now through 2031.