Bottle Notes, Zinfandel

Zinfandel of the Month – 2014 Storybook Mountain Vineyards Zinfandel Mayacamas Range

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 July Zinfandel of the Month is the 2014 Storybook Mountain Vineyards Zinfandel Mayacamas Range.

Storybook Mountain Vineyards was founded in 1983 by Jerry and Sigrid Seps. Advised by legendary winemaker Andre Tchelistcheff that the hills above Calistoga, with their red clay-loam soils and eastern exposures, were the best place in California to plant Zinfandel, the Seps replanted their vineyard to Zinfandel. Subsequently they added Cabernet Sauvignon, other red Bordeaux varieties, and Viognier. The first Storybook Mountain Zinfandel was released in 1983. In 1990, Jerry initiated the creation of Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP).

Garnet in color. 14.9% ABV. Soaring nose of black fruits, vanilla bean and pepper. Big, bold and plush. Modern in style. Full bodied with ample acidity. Well balanced. Blackberry, black cherry liqueur, cocoa and white pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Really well crafted Zinfandel that is built for the long haul. This should cruise to 10 years of age.

My rating: 92 points.

This was my first try of a Storybook Mountain Zinfandel in recent memory. This particular bottle runs about $40. I’ll be looking to try more recent vintages in the near future. Let me know if you are a fan of Storybook Mountain Zins.

Tagged ,

Leave a Comment