Zinfandel (2010)
SommeliAI Insights
A robust Zinfandel with rich flavors of ripe blackberries, red plums, and a hint of white pepper.
About this wine
The 2010 Grgich Hills Estate Zinfandel offers a deep ruby color and an inviting aroma of red fruits, tar, iron, and pepper. On the palate, it presents full-bodied flavors of strawberry, raspberry, peppercorn, vanilla, and plum, balanced by nice acidity. The finish is long and creamy, leaving a lasting impression. This wine is crafted from 97% Zinfandel and 3% Petite Sirah, sourced from the estate's 34-acre vineyard in Calistoga, Napa Valley. Grgich Hills Estate, founded in 1977 by Mike Grgich, is renowned for its commitment to quality and has a storied history in Napa Valley winemaking.
About the grape
Zinfandel, originally from Croatia and known there as Crljenak Kaštelanski, was brought to California in the mid-19th century and has become a key grape in Napa Valley. Grgich Hills Estate cultivates Zinfandel in their 34-acre vineyard in Calistoga, where the northeast exposure and gravelly loam soils create ideal conditions for this varietal. Petite Sirah, also known as Durif, is a cross between Syrah and Peloursin, developed in France in the 1880s. In the 2010 Grgich Hills Estate Zinfandel, a small amount of Petite Sirah was co-fermented with Zinfandel to enhance the wine's complexity and structure.
Quick facts
- 🍇 The 2010 Grgich Hills Estate Zinfandel is crafted from 97% Zinfandel and 3% Petite Sirah, co-fermented to enhance complexity and structure.
- 🪵 This wine was aged for 16 months in large French oak casks, allowing the flavors to integrate seamlessly without being overpowered by oak.
- 🌱 Grgich Hills Estate's vineyards are certified organic and biodynamic, reflecting their commitment to natural and sustainable farming practices.
- 🍒 The 2010 vintage offers fresh flavors of ripe blackberries, black cherries, and a hint of pepper on the long finish.
- 🎉 Grgich Hills Estate was founded on July 4, 1977, by Miljenko 'Mike' Grgich, who gained fame when his Chardonnay won the 1976 Paris Tasting, beating the best of France.
Palate profile
Producer
Grgich Hills Estate, located in Rutherford, California, was founded on July 4, 1977, by renowned winemaker Miljenko "Mike" Grgich and Austin Hills of the Hills Bros. Coffee family. Mike Grgich gained international acclaim when the 1973 Chardonnay he crafted at Chateau Montelena won the 1976 Paris Tasting, a pivotal event that elevated Napa Valley's status in the global wine industry. Committed to sustainable and organic farming practices, the winery achieved Regenerative Organic Certification in 2023, reflecting its dedication to environmental stewardship. Today, Grgich Hills Estate remains family-owned and operated, producing world-class wines that honor its rich heritage and commitment to quality.
