2003 Zinfandel - Dry Creek Valley / Dry Creek Selection

GRAPE SOURCE
* SAWYER VINEYARD (58%), located in the northwestern side of Dry Creek Valley, was planted in the ’70s.
* MAPLE VINEYARDS (28%), located on a bench in the heart of Dry Creek Valley, is owned by Tom and Tina Maple. It consists of numerous blocks of zinfandel, a little petite sirah, and a block of “field mix” (Tina’s Block), planted in 1910.
* BRADFORD MOUNTAIN Cabernet Sauvignon (14%), owned by Bill Hambrecht, is located on the northwestern side of Dry Creek Valley at about 1000 feet elevation.

WINEMAKING
We incorporated fruit from three highly regarded Dry Creek Valley properties, where one finds older head pruned vines. Our style focuses on producing full-flavored and colored wines, which are true to the varietal and favor elegance, finesse and balance over huge extraction, high tannin and excessive alcohol. In this wine, the intense, impressively concentrated fruit sits at center stage. This would be a great candidate for medium to lon gterm aging.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Forward aromas of juicy blackberries, wild blueberries and notes of clove. Classic peppery spice and toasty oak enhance the bright, abundant fruit flavors. This full-bodied wine avoids the overwhelming high alcohol, port-like finish found in many zinfandels. It possesses structure, complexity and balance. Truly one of our most exciting vintages. Try this wine with barbecued ribs. Delicious!

Bottled: November 2004
Winemaker: Gary Farrell
Varietal Composition: 86% Zinfandel,14% Cabernet Sauvignon
Alcohol: 13.8%
Case Production: 1104
Released: June 2005