The development of the Heritage Clone was initiated in 1982 to preserve the tradition and “heritage” of old Zinfandel vineyards. Cuttings from a pre-Prohibition era vineyard were grafted onto phylloxera-resistant rootstock. Then, for several years we worked diligently to screen and propagate virus-free vines that would ultimately produce a crop. Finally, in 1997 the process concluded with a “young vine” wine with “old vine” Zinfandel characteristics, reminiscent of turn-of-the-century heirloom vines. Today, Heritage Vines Zinfandel represents the standard for delicious, well balanced Zinfandel from Sonoma County.

The 2021 Heritage Vines Zinfandel is flavorful and wonderfully integrated. This vintage presents alluring aromatics of black cherry, boysenberry and plum with nuances of warm spices, mocha and white pepper. On the palate, brambly flavors of dark berries come forward. The wine is complex, with bright acidity complimented by deeper notes of cedar, fine leather and dark brown sugar. From start to finish, this remarkable wine offers refreshing acidity paired with excellent structure.

• Blend: 80% Zinfandel, 19% Petite Sirah, 1% Carignane
• Fermentation: 11–17 days in fermenters at 82–88°F; pumped over twice daily
• Barrel Aging: 15 months in American, Hungarian, and French oak; 24% new  oak
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Brix: 24.6
• pH: 3.58
  
• Harvest Date: August 26–October 19, 2021
• Soils: Hillside & benchland, clay loam