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 barbecue on the deck out behind the winery. Great wine, great food and great memories.
Cooke Vineyard, planted in 1979, is 10 acres of Zinfandel on a steep hillside about 1200 feet above the Sonoma Valley floor at the lower end of the Mayacamas Range.
Black in color. 15% ABV. Awesome nose of brambly black fruits, licorice and white pepper. Medium body with perfect acidity and exceptional balance. Old school, claret style Zinfandel. Blackberries, cherries, iron and pepper on the palate. The finish is long and spicy. Fantastic Zinfandel that is aging gracefully. Always one of the best single vineyard designates from Ravenswood. Drink over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 92 points.
Ravenswood is widely available at retail the winery and via the mailing list. Unfortunately, Ravenswood last produced the Cooke Vineyard Zinfandel in 2012. Look for current versions of Dickerson or Old Hill.