The raspberry notes, combined with other fresh red fruits, in the aromatics of this offering from the Saitone Vineyard are characteristic of the site. Hints of anise, baking spice, tangerine peel, and a subtle note of Goji berry add complexity in this multi-faceted wine. Zesty on the palate, the concentration is due to the low yields in this old vine vineyard, which is aged over 120 years. While sizeable and tannic, the wine has terrific balance with extract and acid, and finishes with a sensation of citrus pith that gives way to minerals and crushed rocks.
2020 Saitone Estate Vineyard Zinfandel
Reviews
94 / Wine & Spirits
Everyone on our panel described different facets of this wine’s “zinny energy” and “drive.” It hails from a viticultural treasure, 33 acres on Olivet Road planted in 1895, part of the Williams Selyem estate since 2016. The vineyard sustains zinfandel vines interplanted with a range of other varieties, as well as one block of carignan and another of alicante bouschet that contribute to this wine. It’s a compact Californian with discretion to its power, scents of conifer forest, dark flavors of grape skins and blueberries. The detail in the tannins grows more fragrant and herbal over the course of several days, suggesting the wine has long development ahead in the cellar.
- Alcohol
- 15.10%
- Residual Sugar
- residual sugars…
- pH
- 3.36
- TA
- 0.67g/100mL
- Barrel Aging
- 14 months
- Barrel Selection
- 40% new, 27% 1 yr., 27% 2yr., 6% 3+ yr.
When to Drink
2023-2030
Learn more about cellaring and opening Williams Selyem wines.