Can you feel it, that hint of cool crisp air coming across in the autumn breeze? Makes me want to start the fire pit and grab a glass of wine. While it’s still too warm for the fire, wine doesn’t care what the temp is outside but when temperatures drop I do tend to change my wine choice to those bold reds. To celebrate the arrival of fall, I’m reaching for another sample of Ravenswood, this time the 2007 Ravenswood Sonoma County Old Vine Zinfandel.
Aromas of black pepper and blackberries carry over to the flavors. Red ripe fruit up front, well structured tannins rounding out with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon.
Composition – 76% Zinfandel, 8% Petit Sirah, 8% Carignane, 8% Mixed Blacks
Appellation – Sonoma County
Aging – 18 months in 100% French oakTotal Acidity - .63g/100ml
pH – 3.58
Alcohol – 14.5%
Price - $17
"No Wimpy Wines” is Ravenswood’s motto and a common thread in their wine series. The County Series sources grapes from Sonoma, Napa and Lodi regions with a focus on the Sonoma County heritage. Ravenswood joined with UC Davis and ZAP (Zinfandel Advocates and Producers) to preserve California Zinfandel heritage selections, the oldest vines planted in California.
Thought to originate in Croatia, Zinfandel was once “king” in California vineyards but now represents approximately 10% of the planted vineyards. Those that have remained are there for a reason: location, location, location. Susceptible to rot if too much rain falls, the Zinfandel vineyards that have survived are planted in the perfect micro-climate and farmed well.
As I enjoy the cool autumn air with the breeze flowing through the open windows as I type, I’m dismayed it’s too early in the morning (even I have drinking standards) to enjoy another bottle of Ravenswood.
Ravenswood is hosting me and a handful of others at the end of October to be inducted into The Order of the Raven. Be on the lookout for more Ravenswood wine write ups.
2010© Kellie Stargaard. All Rights Reserved.
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