2011 Biale Monte Rosso Zinfandel

The Monte Rosso Vineyard sits on privileged ground at the fog line overlooking the Sonoma Valley. In ages past, it was under the stewardship of Louis M. Martini that it became one of the most revered vineyard sources in California. The oldest Zinfandel vines in Monte Rosso date back to the late 1800s, and Robert Biale has bottled a very limited production from these vines since 1995. A wine of structure and distinction, to label this bottling "old vines" would simply be inadequate. From the winery: "In 2011 Monte Rosso brings its A-game. The cool and moderate season brought out the brambly, peppery goodness of a classic Monte Rosso: Wild blackberry, raspberry compote, pink and black peppercorn, roasted dry chile, clove, dried oak leaves, cured meats, iron filings, and warm stones." The wine was aged in 25% new French oak for 14 months before bottling.