Early rains and a long, moderate, dry growing season with very few heat spikes allowed for optimal ripening conditions for our Founder’s Reserve Carneros Pinot Noir in 2019. The grape sugars came up slowly, flavors developed beautifully, and the characteristic bright acidity of Pinot Noir was preserved. Some may call it an “uneventful” harvest, which almost always makes for the best wine quality!

This wine was sourced exclusively from ZD’s own organically certified Carneros Estate Vineyard from a small, six-acre block planted to the Hanzell clonal selection. This block has been the core of our Reserve Pinot Noir program, producing small bunches and tiny berries that lead to incredibly complex, concentrated wines. Gentle winemaking practices in the cellar, including hand punchdowns during fermentation, complement the hard work done in the vineyard. Minimal racking and 15 months of aging in French Oak barrels put the finishing touch on this exquisite wine.

Aromas of dried fruit, such as dark cherry mingled with fresh baked rhubarb pie, toasted nuts, and cedar greet you with the nuance and complexity that you’ve come to expect from our Founder’s Reserve Carneros Pinot Noir. On the palate you are greeted with plum, bramble, soft cherry, and a toasty lingering finish. This wine will develop even more complexity in the years to come. Only 27 barrels were produced. Enjoy!
-Chris Pisani, Senior Winemaker