2003 Hartford Court Zinfandel Fanucchi-Wood Road Vineyard

Readers should note that the label designation for this Zinfandel is “Hartford,” not “Hartford Court.” Sullivan loves the 2003 Zins since the vintage enjoyed plenty of heat at the end of the growing season, which helped the grapes attain full phenolic maturity, and the crop size was much smaller than 2002 and 2001. What I enjoy most about this offering is that Sullivan makes Zinfandel with a Pinot Noir mind-set, which seems to add to its complexity. There are 464 cases of the dark ruby/purple-hued 2003 Zinfandel Fanucchi-Wood Road Vineyard. From a site planted in 1906, it possesses dramatic fruit in addition to a wonderful perfume of black raspberries intermixed with kirsch, loamy soil, and spice box. Deep, full-bodied, opulent, and elegant, this is a beautifully pure, flashy Zin to consume over the next 5-7 years. Tel. (800) 588-0234; Fax (800) 600-5895