Vintage: The 2019 vintage will be remembered as nearly perfect. A cold winter with average rainfall made for a late bud-break. Ideal spring weather allowed for a heavy set. Mild conditions throughout summer and fall allowed the large crop to slowly ripen and develop maximum flavor. The wines of 2019 are powerful but elegant; with firm acidity and beautiful balance. This could be the vintage of the decade!
Vineyard: There are only 3 acres of Zinfandel planted on the Truchard Estate Vineyard. One acre is in the northern “Highlands” region, and three acres are located at the southern end of the vineyard. The vines range from 20 to 28 years old and grow on steep hillsides composed of volcanic rock and ash. The porous soils and cooler Carneros climate combine to produce an exceptionally intense Zin, with unique fruit and spice components.
Harvest: Ocober 26 - 31 • 24.5 ºBrix • 3.62 pH • 7.2 g/L TA
Winemaking: The grapes were gently destemmed and crushed, then inoculated with Pasteur Red yeast. The fermentations were pumped-over twice daily, with the temperature peaking at 88° F. After 14 days of maceration the lots were pressed, and the wine allowed to settle in tank for 24 hours before going to barrel. This wine was aged in both French (80%) and American oak (20%) for 10 months; 35% of these barrels were new. The wine was racked only one time before being bottled in August of 2019. Truchard Vineyards produces the only Zin made entirely from Napa Carneros fruit.
Wine Analysis: 14.2% alcohol • 3.72 pH • 6.2 g/l TA
Tasting Notes: An exotic nose of boysenberry, cherry, and cassis with hints of cedar, tobacco, and mint. The mouth is filled with jammy flavors of ripe plum, cranberry, and sweet vanilla. Round tannins and firm acidity provide a lengthy finish of spice and red fruits.
