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 February Zinfandel of the Month is the 2016 Chateau Potelle VGS Zinfandel Alta Vista Vineyard.
Chateau Potelle was founded in 1983 by Jean-Noel & Marketta Fourmeaux. Jean-Noel & Marketta came to the Napa Valley in 1980 after the famous Paris tasting of 1976. The French government wanted them to research Napa Wineries and report back on their findings. They decided against returning to France after falling in love with Napa Valley and instead opened their own winery. Chateau Potelle is located on the steep slopes of Mt. Veeder.
Alta Vista Vineyard is situated in the Moon Mountain District AVA on the Sonoma Valley side of Mt. Veeder. Alta Vista was planted in the 1930’s.
Dark crimson in color. 15.5% ABV. Pretty nose of red and blue fruits, cocoa powder, anise and pepper. Medium body with bright acidity. Light, elegant and well balanced. Raspberry liqueur, boysenberry, brown sugar and pepper on the palate. The finish is long and seamless. Just a gorgeous, opulent well made Zinfandel. Best over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 93 points.
The wine is available at retail and the winery and costs $75.
Review based on a sample provided by the winery.
The VGS Tasting House and Garden in St. Helena is open daily from 10-5 by appointment only. I’m looking forward to visiting on my next trip to Napa Valley.
Hi Tom, have just written two articles about 1976 Paris Judgement, this unexpected aftermath – Chateau Potelle creation – is fairly interesting continuation ) gotta make more research , look like there’s gonna be more interesting facts
Thanks Walter. Yeah you know that was news to me as well. Cool story though.