2017 Centennial Zinfandel
Coming from the historic Lewis Vineyard in Lodi, our 2017 vintage boasts rich aromas of candied raspberry and blackberry, complimented with accents of clove and licorice. Low yields from these ancient vines lead to concentrated flavors and natural acidity which balances the strong tannins. This, combined with over two years of barrel aging in American Oak leads to a bold, yet refreshing wine with a silky mouthfeel. Spicy fruit notes carry this wine to the finish and leave a lingering smoky, sweet flavor long after you’ve finished the glass.
Certified Lodi Rules for Sustainable Winegrowing
Awards & Accolades
| 94 Points | 2022 Tasting Panel/ The Somm Journal |
Region: California
Appellation: Lodi
Vintage: 2017
Alcohol: 15%
Vineyard Notes
The Lewis vineyard was planted in 1903. Akin to the plantings of the Old World, these head-trained, spur-trained vines grow in a goblet shape which allows for uniform sun exposure. Fruit maturation occurs slowly in these own-rooted ancient vines creating finessed balance of sugar and acid among the few bunches each vine is capable of producing.
Production Notes
The 2017 growing season marked the end of the drought with heavy winter rainfall that continued into the spring. Due to the rain, timely vineyard practices were crucial and we adapted our cultural techniques to maintain vine balance. Heat spikes during late August to mid-September required close attention to irrigation to ensure vine health. With the given weather, our winegrapes developed the required sugars, but full flavor maturation delayed our harvest. The wait was worth it and the outcome was a vintage that boasts bright and fresh whites with ideal levels of acidity and red wines that are showing good intensity and concentration.