The 2015 Founder's Reserve Pinot Noir from ZD’s organically certified Carneros Estate Vineyard is a stunning example of the benefits of a warm, consistent growing season. The ideal weather conditions led to a lighter harvest resulting in only 1.2 tons per acre, with small clustered berries that were densely rich in flavor.

This small six acre Pinot Noir block has been dry farmed and organically certified since 1999, and has yielded in 2015 incredibly intense, concentrated fruit from the notoriously small bunched, small berried Hanzell clonal selection. With gentle destemming, fermenting with 30% whole berries, and hand punchdowns, the unique terroir of this vineyard is expressed to its fullest. Minimal racking and 15 months of aging in French Oak barrels put the finishing touch on this exquisite wine.

In the aroma, black cherry, cedar, and rhubarb mingle with hints of toasted nuts and clove. On the palate, the ripe core of fruit is enveloped in silky soft tannin and generous yet balanced acidity, which leads to an incredibly long, lush finish. This wine is an ongoing commemoration and tribute to ZD Wines' founder Norman deLeuze who is depicted on the front label.