Old Vine Zinfandel’s viticultural legacy in the Russian River Valley dates back to the late 19th century, when Italian immigrants settled there and planted Zinfandel. In 1926 one of these immigrants, Benito Montafi, planted a Zinfandel-based “field blend” in the high plains of the Piner-Olivet district, which has a long history of producing compelling old vine Zinfandels. For us, having produced Zinfandel for many years from the adjacent Vera Gold Vineyard, we were ecstatic when the opportunity arose to purchase Montafi in 2014.

This wine is beautifully expressive on the nose with notes of fresh thyme, raspberry bramble, and Amarena cherry. The intensity and lush texture on the palate is balanced by juicy acidity and a long velvety finish.