Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel

Tasting Notes

Intense aromatics of blackcurrant and plum are complemented by savoury notes of black olive, anise and allspice. A bright entry of black raspberry gives way to a bold palate of supple, lively tannins and a powerful, lingering finish.

Producer

2020 marked Seghesio’s 125th anniversary in Sonoma County. For over a century, the Seghesio family has played an integral role in the history and evolution of viticulture in the region. The winery was established in 1895, when Italian immigrant Edoardo Seghesio planted his first Zinfandel vines in what is now Seghesio’s ‘Home Ranch’ vineyard in Alexander Valley. Edoardo and his wife Angela continued growing vines during the Prohibition years, and were the only winery in the region to survive that era.

Seghesio’s reputation for world class Zinfandel was cemented under the guidance of third generation Pete Seghesio and his cousin Ted Seghesio in the 1980s. Owned by Crimson Wine Group since 2011 (who also own Pine Ridge in Napa Valley), today Seghesio remains focused on its family roots, with Ted Seghesio’s nephew Ned Neumiller in charge of viticulture. In recognition of Ned’s meticulous work in the vineyards, he was recently awarded the honour of “Sonoma County’s Outstanding Young Person in Agriculture". Winemaker Andy Robinson, who worked alongside Ted in the cellar for almost 20 years, is now Head Winemaker. Italian consultant winemaker Alberto Antonini has also helped improve the quality of the wines, and his influence can be seen in the juicy, approachable style of Zinfandel that has become Seghesio’s hallmark.

Seghesio owns 120 hectares of sustainably-farmed vineyards across several renowned appellations in Sonoma, including Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley. In addition to these outstanding sites, they have long-standing relationships with local growers from both Sonoma and Mendocino counties.

Vineyards

This wine is comprised of fruit from vineyards across Sonoma Valley, Russian River Valley, Alexander Valley and Dry Creek. The fruit is 55% estate grown and 45% purchased from long-standing grower relationships. Aggressive hand canopy management is maintained throughout the growing season. Yield management techniques are sparingly employed, and performed methodically to eliminate stacked clusters and allow optimal sunlight on the grapes, without over-exposing them to the intense heat of the summer sun. The vines produce intensely aromatic and concentrated fruit for use in this blend, reflecting the various regions of Sonoma County where each parcel was grown.