2020 Monte Rosso Vineyard Gnarly Vine Zinfandel
The Wine Advocate, May 4, 2023
There are 600 cases of the 2020 Gnarly Vine Zinfandel Monte Rosso Vineyard, sourced from vines planted as long ago as 1888. Aged in a combination of French and American oak, it offers up faint hints of cracked pepper on the nose, serving to accent the bright lingonberry and raspberry fruit. In addition to the lovely raspberry fruit, there's a slightly briary, savory component that adds welcome complexity. Full-bodied and supple, this terrific Zinfandel finishes with ample length and mouthwatering acids.
Our 2020 Gnarly Vine Zinfandel is a tightly wound wine that unfurls beautifully in the glass. Vibrant aromas of crushed raspberries, orange zest and star anise spiral toward the nose. Layer by layer, notes of pomegranate, red plum and Morello cherry unwind on the palate with hints of white pepper and shaved nutmeg. Classic Monte Rosso earth and baking spice shine through in this vintage. The energy of this wine stays consistent through the long finish.