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 June Zinfandel of the Month is the 2013 Robert Biale Zinfandel Bedrock Vineyard.
I chose this Zinfandel as Biale is rarely mentioned is rarely mentioned with the top California Zin producers like Carlisle and Turley. In spite of that they secure grapes from heritage vineyards like R.W. Moore, Monte Rosso and Bedrock.
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.
Bedrock Vineyard is situated in the heart of Sonoma Valley and the vines trace back to the the 1880’s.
Violet in color. 14.8% ABV. Intoxicating nose of brambly red and black fruits, cherry cordial and licorice. Medium body with medium acidity. Big and ripe yet well balanced. Blackberries, raspberry liqueur, cherries and black pepper on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Fascinating wine that pushes the envelope on ripeness despite a relatively low ABV. I’d be inclined to drink this Zinfandel sooner rather than later. Best over the next 1-2 years.
My rating: 90 points.
The 2015 version is currently available to member of the Robert Biale mailing list. I am Biale fan and will continue to look for their wines from favorite vineyards including those mentioned above.
I wrote about Bedrock Vineyard previously in Top 10 Old Vine Zinfandel Vineyards.
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