2021 Mueller "Old Vine" Zinfandel
Our 2021 Mueller "Old Vine" Zinfandel is produced from a single block vineyard located near the eastern border of the Russian River Valley appellation. Directly east of the vineyard is the Chalk Hill appellation. This vineyard partially experiences the cooling impact of fog from the Russian River which allows for full ripeness. The fruit is harvested in the cool morning hours and transported to the winery (about 20 minutes away) for crushing into our small, open-top fermenting tanks. A portion of juice is fermented using pure strain yeast while the balance ferments spontaneously with wild (indigenous) yeast. During fermentation. we punch down the cap by hand several times each day to gently extract the grapes flavors and aromas. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, of which about 30% are new to complement the delicious Zinfandel fruit.
Bob's Notes:
"Pour a glass and let the wine open for a few minutes. Raspberries, red cherry and pepper will entice you to take a sip. The same ripe aromas will echo in the flavors and a pleasant burst of ripe tannins will coat your tongue and extend the pleasure. Limited use of new oak ensures the maximum impact from this unique and utterly enjoyable Zinfandel."