Zinfandel of the Month is a regular 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 October Zinfandel of the Month is the 2014 The Pines 1852 Zinfandel.
The Pines 1852 was founded in 2001 by Lonnie Wright. Wright learned the craft of viticulture when he and several others planted 2,000 acres in two years; the first vineyards at Columbia Crest. Wade Wolf and Clay Mackie, experts in vineyard management, directed the operation as Wright soaked in all the knowledge these legends had to offer. Wright became the area manager for 650 acres of grapes and supervised the first harvest. The first wines from the The Pines 1852 included a Young Vine Zinfandel, Old Vine Zinfandel and Merlot. Today they make 19 different wines. Peter Rosback, of Sineann, is the winemaker.
The grapes for this Zinfandel come from a 30 year old vineyard situated in The Dalles, Oregon.
Crimson in color. 14.6% ABV. Jammy nose of black fruits, creosote and pepper. Super plush and silky. Blackberries, raspberry syrup and brown sugar on the palate. The finish is long and sweet. Absolutely delicious Zinfandel with loads of potential. The Old Vines from this vintage should be stunning. Drink over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 93 points.
The tasting room for The Pines 1852 is in the beautiful city of Hood River, Oregon. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. The 2014 Zinfandel was just released at a price of $30. It won’t be easy to come by but is definitely worth the search. Good luck!
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