The 2022 vintage of our Founder’s Reserve Pinot Noir was harvested exclusively from ZD’s own organically certified Carneros Estate vineyard. Uniquely planted to the Hanzel clonal selection, the vines feature small clusters and berries which produce rich, complex, and full-bodied wines. Early rain nourished the vineyards leading to balanced growth and even ripening with harvest coming before the heat spikes in September. Intense organic farming practices along with a keen attention to detail in the vineyard has allowed for a consistent wine year after year.

The 2022 Founder’s Reserve Pinot Noir was gently punched down every six hours in our small fermentation tanks, leading to soft, well-integrated acidity and tannin structure. Utilizing multiple French Oak cooperages, the wine was aged fifteen months in barrel harmonizing the wine’s structure and flavor.

Aromatics of lush red fruit integrated with vanilla, baking spice, and cedar lead to notes of ripe cherry, raspberry, rhubarb and hibiscus on the palate. The medium-bodied, mid-palate gives way to a lengthy, complex finish leaving you eagerly awaiting the next sip. Only 18 barrels were produced.