Forgeron Cellars: 2010 Zinfandel

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Details at a Glance

Blend: 77% Zinfandel, 23% Primitivo

Appelation: Columbia Valley

Vineyards: Zinfandel - Alder Ridge (Horse Heaven Hills), Primitivo - Stonetree (Wahluke Slope)

Bottled: August 30, 2011

Acidity: 0.64g/ 100mL

Ph: 3.80

Barrel Regime: 100% American Oak, 45% New and 55% 2-years used

Total Production: 360 Cases

Prices: $30/bottle $324/case

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2010 Zinfandel

A cool, wet spring led to delayed flowering and reduced fruit set across many varieties. An unusually cool summer produced dramatic differences in ripening between warmer and cooler sites, with veraison extending well into September in some cooler areas. However, naturally low yields, combined with over a month of consistently warm weather from late September through late October, produced phenolic ripeness and flavor development with extraordinary natural acidity.

The youthful Zinfandel nose of brambly berry is turned up a notch with toasted hazelnuts and a twist of fresh mandarin. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it displays excellent acid-to-fruit balance. There's plenty of blackberry fruit up front with a backdrop of chocolate and licorice spice, followed by cracked pepper and clove.

This aromatic and food-friendly Zinfandel is begging for grilled flank steak or decadent Italian meatballs over risotto. Or simply enjoy the warmth of a fire for a romantic interlude with dark chocolate and...

Sante'!

Marie-Eve Gilla ~ Winemaker