Growing Conditions
Our 2014 Fighting Brothers Zinfandel is made from a mix of “old” and “young” vines, and is named for my two sons, who have blended their age-related differences into something approaching harmony. The old vines give us the complexity that comes from the traditional field blending of multiple varietals, while the younger sites give us lively acidity and bright, focused flavors. Together they produce a harmonious blend worthy of the Fighting Brothers that inspired it.
Bottling
Bottled Aug. 24, 2015.
Winemaking
The grapes were harvested in the early morning hours and transported immediately to the winery. In the cellar, the grapes were de-stemmed into an open-top fermenter (95% whole berry), “cold-soaked” for 48 hours, and inoculated with a low rate of yeast to allow the “wild yeast” to have an effect before the cultured yeast takes over. All lots were co-fermented to maximize the complexity and harmony of the blend. After fermentation, the wine was pressed to new and one year old French barrels.
Aging
11 months 30% New French Oak.
