Crafted with over a century of winemaking expertise, the Seghesio Family Vineyards Zinfandel Sonoma County is a vibrant testament to Sonoma's rich viticultural heritage. This bold and beautifully balanced red wine showcases luscious flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and plum, accented by spicy hints of cinnamon, black pepper, and briar patch. Aged meticulously, it delivers a plush texture with supple, zesty tannins that create a lingering, memorable finish. Perfectly suited for pairing with hearty dishes like braised meats or aged cheeses, this Zinfandel reflects the Seghesio family's enduring dedication to crafting exceptional wines that embody the spirit of Sonoma County.
Process & Profile
The Seghesio Family Vineyards Zinfandel Sonoma County is a testament to over 125 years of winemaking tradition. Crafted meticulously, this Zinfandel is an artful blend of 172 small lots hand-harvested from Sonoma County's premier vineyards. The grapes are fermented in a variety of methods before aging for 10 months in a combination of new American oak and neutral French and American oak barrels. This meticulous process ensures a wine that is richly fruited, bold, and remarkably balanced, embodying the diverse terroir of Sonoma County.
Tasting Notes
This Zinfandel delights the senses with its vibrant aroma and complex flavor profile. The nose is bright and alluring, bursting with red raspberry, Santa Rosa plums, and juicy blackberries. On the palate, it features lively acidity that enhances the wine's tactile experience, transitioning into smooth, silky tannins. Additional savory notes of black olive, anise, and allspice add depth, while the finish is long and satisfying with a supple mouthfeel. It's a vivid expression of expertly ripened fruit from Sonoma County's cooler growing seasons.
What Makes It Special
Founded in 1895, Seghesio Family Vineyards has been a pioneer in Zinfandel cultivation across Sonoma County. Their dedication to heritage viticulture is showcased through their sustainability practices and the preservation of old vines, some averaging 75 years in age. This legacy of resilience, from the family's Italian immigrant roots to enduring hardships like prohibition and droughts, has shaped their commitment to producing wines with purity, character, and balance. This Zinfandel reflects that unwavering dedication and the generational care placed into every bottle.
How to Enjoy
Seghesio Family Vineyards Zinfandel is incredibly versatile and food-friendly. It pairs exceptionally well with hearty and rich dishes such as braised short ribs, pork belly, and gnocchi with gorgonzola. For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for 30 minutes before serving it at 60–68°F (15–20°C). Whether enjoyed with a meal or savored on its own, this wine is the perfect companion for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Embrace the bold and balanced flavors of Seghesio Family Vineyards Zinfandel Sonoma County and experience a wine that tells the story of Sonoma's rich winemaking history with every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Seghesio's Sonoma County Zinfandel unique?
Seghesio's Sonoma County Zinfandel is crafted from over 150 individual vineyard lots across Sonoma County, reflecting the region's diverse microclimates and soils. The wine is known for its vibrant red raspberry, plum, and blackberry flavors, balanced by lively acidity and silky tannins. This balance creates a wine that's both bold and approachable.
What flavor profile can I expect from this Zinfandel?
This Zinfandel features a vibrant blend of rich fruit aromas like blackberry, plum, and cherry, complemented by baking spices. On the palate, it delivers fresh fruit flavors, lively acidity, and silky tannins, offering a bold yet balanced experience.
Are there any food pairings that work particularly well with this wine?
Yes, Seghesio's Zinfandel pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as meaty pasta sauces, short ribs, pork belly, and rich dishes like gnocchi gorgonzola or mushroom-based entrées. These foods enhance the wine's bold flavors and nuanced profile.
What is the history behind Seghesio Family Vineyards?
Seghesio Family Vineyards was founded in 1895 by Italian immigrant Edoardo Seghesio, who planted Zinfandel vines in Sonoma County. Over five generations, the family has upheld their commitment to crafting high-quality Zinfandel, while preserving the heritage and integrity of old vine vineyards.
What does “old vine” mean for Seghesio wines, and why is it important?
Seghesio defines "old vine" as vines that are at least 50 years old. They source grapes for their Old Vine Zinfandel predominantly from vineyards averaging 75 years of age. These older vines produce lower yields but deliver concentrated, complex, and intense flavors unique to mature vines, greatly elevating the wine's character.
What serving recommendations are best for Seghesio Zinfandel?
To best enjoy Seghesio Zinfandel, serve it slightly below room temperature at 60–68°F (15–20°C). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes can help open up its aromas and flavors, enhancing the tasting experience.
Can this Zinfandel be aged?
While most Zinfandels, including Seghesio's Sonoma County Zinfandel, are crafted for early enjoyment, they can age for up to 5–10 years. Aging may soften the wine's fruit-forward character, revealing more subtle spice and complexity over time.
Why is Sonoma County an ideal region for Zinfandel production?
Sonoma County's diverse microclimates, with warm days and cool nights, are perfect for growing Zinfandel. The region's soils range from volcanic to well-drained loams, contributing to the depth and complexity of Zinfandel produced here. The influence of the Pacific Ocean also helps maintain acidity and balance in the grapes.
What accolades has Seghesio's Sonoma County Zinfandel received?
Seghesio's 2022 Sonoma Zinfandel was awarded 93 points by Wine Spectator and named a "Top Value Wine of 2024," highlighting its exceptional balance of quality and affordability.
How does Seghesio's Zinfandel reflect the family's winemaking philosophy?
Seghesio is dedicated to producing wines with balance, purity, and character, reflecting their Italian roots and commitment to Sonoma County. Their Zinfandels are meticulously crafted, blending tradition with innovation to honor the grape's bold and complex nature.