Ravenswood was founded in 1976 by Joel Peterson. The winery is a pioneer in producing single vineyard Zinfandels from some of Napa and Sonoma’s most treasured vineyards, including Dickerson, Old Hill, Cooke and Belloni. I used to visit Ravenswood in the summer, when they released their single vineyard wines. Back in the day they also served delicious barbeque on the deck out behind the winery. Great wine, great food and great memories.
Old Hill Ranch is possibly the oldest continuously farmed vineyard in California. It was established in 1852 by William McPherson Hill who was the first viticulturist to import non-Mission grapes into Sonoma.
Purple in color. 14.9% ABV. Stunning nose of red and black fruits, plums and white pepper. Full bodied with moderate acidity. Rich and plush with great texture on the palate. Flavors of raspberry compote, boysenberry, earth and pepper. Chalky, dusty tannins on an exceptionally long finish. Easily the most impressive Zinfandel I have had from Ravenswood in the last several years. Old Hill Ranch is the diamond in the Ravenswood SVD lineup. Drink over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 94 points.
Ravenswood is widely available at retail the winery and via the mailing list. The ’14 version of the Old Hill Ranch Zinfandel will cost you right around $50.
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Thanks Tom. My favorite local shop just happened to be carrying this vintage, so I picked one up. I was a big supporter of Ravenswood in the 1990s, so it will be fun to see what is happening now. Your note is very encouraging.
Thanks David. I used to visit frequently in the early to mid nineties. This was clearly the best Zin I have had from Ravenswood going back several years.