Item is one bottle of 2014 Trecini Rockpile Zinfandel

2014 Trecini Rockpile Zinfandel  ♦ BEST OF CLASS & GOLD ♦
Branham Vineyard

A bountiful level of vibrant fruit captures the most soft and more refined tannins for our Rockpile Zinfandel. 14 months of barrel aging in 100% French Oak, of which about 20% new, has created additional textures and dimensions, while still respecting this distinctive Rockpile fruit.

This wine has been styled to show off more of this varietal’s fresh and vibrant fruit characters, which allows it to be approachable for early drinking, while maintaining enough acidity and structure to be consumed for several years to come. 

Branham Vineyard has the distinction of being the first to be planted in this region, and is also the furthest, rockiest, and most remote of all of the vineyards in this prestigious appellation. The grapes were picked at the earlier levels of ripeness on 3 occasions over a 2-week period in late September. This harvesting choice captured the delicate fruit characters, preserved more of the grapes natural acidity with the added bonus of keeping the alcohol at a more friendly level. At the winery all of the grapes were gently de-stemmed to small open-top fermenters where they were cold soaked for 4 to 5 days. This was followed by a cooler gentle fermentation, reaching about 80º F. We used a combination of hand punch downs and pump overs during the earlier stages, followed by a submerged cap during the remaining time on the skins. The average skin time was 19 days. 

The Zinfandel is not your typical big hot peppery zinfandel. It is flavorful, fruit forward and minerally. Paired with food makes the wines explode with flavors you’d never expect with a zinfandel.

It is an outstanding Zinfandel and truly memorable. For more on the Rockpile appellation visit the Rockpile Grape Growers Association: rockpileappellation.com/viticulture.php