Bottle Notes, Zinfandel

Zinfandel of the Month – 2012 Grgich Hills Estate Zinfandel

Zinfandel of the Month is a regular feature on Zinfandel Chronicles. Keep in mind that although the Zinfandel of the Month might be an older bottle, the current vintage will be one you can find at retail or via the mailing list.

The March Zinfandel of the Month is the 2012 Grgich Hills Estate.

Grgich Hills Estate, in Rutherford, in the Napa Valley, was founded in 1977 by Mike Grgich and Austin Hills. Grgich earned fame in 1976 when the Chardonnay he produced as winemaker at Chateau Montelena won first prize among white wines at the now famous Paris Wine Tasting. The estate has 366 acres of vineyards in American Canyon, Carneros, Yountville, Rutherford and Calistoga and is still best known for its Chardonnays, which consistently earn accolades from wine critics. Grgich also makes Fume Blanc, Zinfandel, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon and dessert wines. Mike Grgich was inducted into the Vintners Hall of Fame in 2008.

Crimson in color. 15.5% ABV. 98% Zinfandel co-fermented with 2% Petite Sirah. Savory nose of black fruits, plums and black pepper. Smooth and silky with enough acidity to keep everything in balance. Blackberries, raspberry compote, cherry cordial and pepper on the palate. The finish is long and spicy. Really pretty Zinfandel and without question the best from Grgich in recent memory. Drink over the next 3-5 years.

My rating: 93 points.

$36 at the winery and retail.

Grgich Hills is one of Napa’s iconic wineries. Consider stopping by when you next visit Napa Valley.

This review was based on sample provided by the winery.

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