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 2016 Pedroncelli Mother Clone Zinfandel.
Pedroncelli Winery has come a long way since 1927, when John Pedroncelli, Sr. purchased vineyards and a small winery in Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley. Pedroncelli initially sold grapes to home winemakers during prohibition in order to keep the vineyard going and now almost 90 years later is run by a 3rd generation of the Pedroncelli family.
Crimson in color. 14.9% ABV. Fantastic nose of brambly black fruits, black pepper and baking spices. Full bodied with juicy acidity. Rich and jammy with just a touch of heat on the palate. Flavors of blackberry, boysenberry and black pepper. Good length on the finish. Delicious, easy to drink, Zinfandel that is everything you hope for at $17 a bottle. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 90 points.
Pedroncelli is part of the fabric that makes up the history of wine in the Dry Creek Valley. The wines are very well made and by all standards, exceptionally well priced. Consider a visit on your next trip to Sonoma County.