Barra 2023 Reserve Zinfandel

Certified organic grapes from our hillside farmed Bella Collina ranch and our home ranch, Redwood Valley Vineyards, were hand-harvested in mid-October 2023. The fruit was gently destemmed to a refrigerated tank for fermentation. After 24 hours of cool soaking, the grapes were inoculated with a winemaker's select yeast, and alcoholic fermentation began. The must was mixed two times per day to extract color, flavor, and tannin. We allowed the fruit to reach 80-82F while fermenting. Once primary fermentation was complete, the must was delicately pressed and stored in tank until malolactic fermentation was completed. The new wine was then racked off its lees to barrels for maturation and aging.

Aromas of ripe blackberries and juicy plums blend with underlying hints of black pepper, cinnamon, and a touch of clove. Savory nuances of dark chocolate and tobacco intertwine with the ripe fruit flavors, while the petite sirah contributes a structured backbone, adding richness and an appealing tannic grip that balances the wine's fruitiness.