2011 A. Rafanelli Zinfandel Unfiltered

The valley is gravelly on the east side and more volcanic and red on the west side. They have always blended the fruit from both sides of the valley, from five different vineyards, to make just one wine. 7% Petite Sirah. Fermented in small open-top tanks. Matured in new and used French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. pH 3.65, TA 6.5 g/l. Sweetness of oak on the nose but there is still the fragrance of the variety. Red fruit, moreish acidity, full and generous but finely ripe. Pretty firm grip and more savoury on the finish. Scented red fruit dominates on the nose as the oak seems to recede in the glass. (JH)