Bottle Notes, Zinfandel

Zinfandel of the Month – 2012 Robert Biale Vineyards Zinfandel Black Chicken

Zinfandel of the Month is a new feature on Zinfandel Chronicles. Keep in mind that although the Zinfandel of the Month might be an older bottle, the current vintage will be one you can find at retail or via the mailing list.

The August Zinfandel of the Month is the 2012 Robert Biale Black Chicken.

Robert Biale Vineyards in Napa has its roots in the 1930s, when the Biale family started growing Zinfandel grapes and other produce on the outskirts of Napa. The family grapes mostly were sold to local wineries, though the Biales saved some to make wine for the family. The winery was formally founded in 1991. The estate grows Zinfandel and Petite Sirah on 25 acres in Napa Valley.

In the early days of Napa, Aldo Biale sold chickens and a wide variety of produce. Black Chicken was the code word for a jug of Aldo’s secret Zinfandel.

Bright crimson in color. 15.8% ABV. Black fruits, pepper and currants on the nose. Nice acidity. Ripe and juicy but still elegant. Blackberry compote, white pepper, plums and raspberry on the palate. This wine is still very young and vibrant. Drink over the next 5-7 years.

My rating: 92 points.

The Zins from Robert Biale are some of the very best in Napa Valley. The wines are readily available at retail and via the winery website. You should be able to find Black Chicken for $40.

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