Ravenswood was founded in 1976 by Joel Peterson. The winery is a pioneer in producing single vineyard Zinfandels from some of Napa and Sonoma’s most treasured vineyards, including Dickerson, Old Hill, Cooke and Belloni. I used to visit Ravenswood in the summer, when they released their single vineyard wines. Back in the day they also served delicious barbecue on the deck out behind the winery. Great wine, great food and great memories.
Ravenswood was sold several years ago by Constellation to Gallo and the iconic Sonoma tasting room was shut down. The future of the brand is in question at this moment. I blogged about this recently in The End of an Era with the Closure of the Ravenswood Tasting Room.
Belloni Vineyard, located in the Russian River Valley along Wood Road in the outskirts of Santa Rosa, was planted in the early part of the 20th Century.
Crimson in color. 14.9% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, plums, earth and pepper. Medium body with perfect acidity and a charming, albeit restrained, fruit style. Claret style Zinfandel. Cherry, salmonberry, iron and pepper on the palate. Nice length on the finish. Supremely elegant and absolutely delicious. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 91 points.
I’ve no idea of what will become of Ravenswood in future years so I will buy the wines when a deal presents itself like this bottle which I found on WineBid for only $25.