I’m excited to introduce a new monthly feature: The Zinfandel Chronicles Zinfandel of the Month.
Each month around the 15th or so I’ll spotlight a particular Zinfandel that I feel is noteworthy. The wine might be something I have pulled from my cellar, picked up at a local retailer or a sample provided by a winery. You can bet if I’ve selected it for my Zinfandel of the Month, it is an exceptional bottle. To keep it relevant, I’ll only feature wines with a current vintage available at retail or via the mailing list.
The October Zinfandel of the Month is the 2009 Elyse Morisoli Vineyard.
Elyse Winery was founded in 1987 by Ray Coursen and his wife Nancy. They crushed 4.5 tons of Zinfandel from the Morisoli Vineyard in Rutherford to craft 286 cases of their first wine. The vineyard is located between Niebaum and Manley Lanes in the heart of the Rutherford Bench. Some of the Zinfandel in the vineyard dates back over 100 years. While their portfolio has grown over the last 25 years, the focus of Elyse remains on creating vineyard-driven wines that pair well with food. The total production of 10,000 cases is predominantly made up of Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.
The wine is deep red in color. 14.8% ABV. The nose features red fruits, menthol, pepper and licorice. Rich flavors of raspberry, white pepper, earth, eucalyptus, plum and mocha on the palate. Claret-style Zinfandel. Medium acidity, supple tannins and a long finish. Drink over the next 3-5 years. This wine will pair beautifully with pasta, pizza or anything off the grill. Worth the search.
My rating: 92 points.
The wine is $37 from the winery (this bottle was a sample from them).
Elyse also does a Black Sears Zinfandel that I am eager to try based on past experiences with this vineyard.
Zinfandel of the Month is a work in progress – I look forward to your feedback and suggestions on wines to feature in the coming months!
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.
This is a long time favorite of mine.
Cliff