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 2019 A. Rafanelli Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley.
I chose this wine as my Zinfandel of the Month as Rafanelli was unable to produce a Zinfandel with the 2020 vintage due to the fires and I look forward to supporting them when they release their 2021 Zinfandel early next year.
Purple in color. 14.8% ABV. Awesome nose of black fruits, licorice and pepper. Medium to full bodied with mouth watering acidity. Black cherry, black raspberry, earth and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish with subtle, dusty tannins. About as good as Zinfandel gets from the Dry Creek Valley. Best over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 93 points.
I’ve previously posted on Rafanelli in What’s Your Price for Zin?
Rafanelli recently entered the digital age and you can now sign up for the mailing list on their website! The tasting room is open by appointment and is always worth a visit to try the new releases.