Bottle Notes, Zinfandel

2014 Hartford Family Winery Zinfandel Russian River Valley Old Vines – Bottle Notes

Hartford Family Winery was founded in 1994 as a result of Don and Jennifer Hartford’s appreciation for the wines, the people, and the unique vineyards near their Russian River Valley home. Located in the Sonoma County town of Forestville, the winery is about 15 miles from the cool Pacific Coast. Jeff Stewart is the Hartford Family Winemaker.

Purple in color. 15.7% ABV. Sublime nose of brambly red and black fruits, licorice, cocoa and pepper. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Impeccable balance. Plush and jammy with layer upon layer of sweet fruits. Black cherry liqueur, raspberry compote, blueberry and pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Awesome wine that leaves no doubt that Hartford Family should be on the radar of all Zinfandel fans. Best over the next 2-3 years.

My rating: 94 points.

The 2014 Hartford Family Zinfandel was the Number 10 Wine of the Year in the Wine Spectator Top 100. Be on the lookout for the ’17 version. Fairly priced at $42 per bottle.

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