Bottle Notes

New Releases from Kinsella Estates

Tamara and Kevin Kinsella founded Kinsella Estates in 2008. Kinsella Estates is an organically farmed vineyard situated in a private valley in the foothills of the western edge of Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley. Thomas Rivers Brown, of Schrader, Rivers Marie and Outpost fame, has been the winemaker from the start. Kinsella makes several Cabernet Sauvignons and a Zinfandel.

I recently had the opportunity to try some of the wineries new releases.

2012 Kinsella Estates Zinfandel Spencer’s Vineyard – Crimson in color. 15.9% ABV. Intoxicating nose of red fruites, herbs and flowers. Medium body with strong acidity and exceptional balance. Raspberry compote, rhubarb, pepper and blood orange on the palate. This wine is young, fresh and vibrant. Drink over the next 3-5 years. $40 at the winery. My rating: 93 points.

2012 Kinsella Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Jersey Boys Vineyard – Opaque purple in color. 14.5% ABV. Explosive nose of blue fruits, graphite and cassis. Rich and full bodied. Blueberries, raspberries, currants and mocha on the palate. The finish is long and lush. Gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon from an exceptional vintage and winemaker. On par with any other Cabernet that TRB makes. Drink over the next decade. $125 at the winery. My rating: 96 points.

Reviews were based on samples provided by the winery.

I have followed Thomas Rivers Brown for over a decade now yet somehow Kinsella Estates was not on my radar. If you find yourself on the long waiting list at Schrader, Rivers Marie and Outpost you should strongly consider the wines of Kinsella Estates.

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