2007 Kalyra Old Vine Zinfandel

Californian Zinfandel has always offered unique characteristics that distinguish it from its long lost Hungarian and Croatian cousins. Having always been a fan of this varietal, Winemaker Mike Brown ventured north to Dry Creek Vineyards in the Russian River area of the Sonoma Valley to find suitable fruit for this wine. The vines from Russian River are of old stock and have been producing fruit for over 50 years. The grapes were dry farmed and picked at the height of the 2007 harvest. The wine was aged in American Oak for over 16 months and bottled in early 2009.

The resultant wine is slightly more subtle than some of the big, high alcohol Californian Zinfandels, and the tannins—whist present—do not take over the palette. The fruit is of classic dark berry with a delightful jammy finish. This wine is perfect with hearty steaks and grilled meats. Let the wine breath for a while after opening, as it is still a youngster in the realm of full bodied Zinfandels.