We continue to embrace the universal new favorite word, “Pivot,” and in 2020 turned our focus towards a historical Rosa Lee favorite: Zinfandel. After being guided for 15 years by the whims of my grandmother and ZD’s co-founder Rosa Lee, and producing 29 unique wines under her namesake, this winemaking decision was a perfect match. A varietal that is not only delicious, but also not as susceptible to smoke from Wine Country wildfires.

With the many challenges presented in 2020, it is a pleasure to share something that’s as unexpected as it is excellent. After achieving full ripeness in the vineyard, a blend of 79% Zinfandel, 17% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot was used to enhance the richness of the wine. We assembled the final blend just 5 weeks before bottling, to ensure full development in 15 months of American Oak barrel aging. The results rewarded us with a wonderfully balanced wine.

The wine displays classic medium purple color and dense aromas of cherry jam, candied plum, cola, and subtle spice notes that are powerful, ripe, and integrated. Rich, round, and soft on the palate, dark fruit dominates accompanied by vanilla, chocolate, and tobacco. Like Rosa Lee herself, this wine is sure to be a crowd pleaser with no shortage of complexity.

Only 15 barrels produced.

*Brandon deLeuze, Winemaker/Partner
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