Reichwage Winery was founded in 2014 by Max Reichwage to fulfill a dream of producing small quantities of classically made Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. Max is the owner and winemaker. Before starting the winery Max studied chemistry at the University of Michigan, and viticulture and enology at University California Davis. Reichwage has two estate vineyards in Sonoma County: Twin Hills and Mancini Ranch. The winery recently opened a tasting room in Sebastopol.
Mancini Ranch is situated at the intersection of Piner and Olivet. The vineyard is kitty corner from Papera Ranch and not far from other acclaimed vineyards such as Saitone, Ziegler, Carlisle and Montafi. For me there is no question that the Piner/Olivet area is about as good as it gets for Zinfandel.
Mancini Ranch was planted between 1922 and 1924 by Luca Mancini. The fruit from the 16 acre vineyard goes to Reichwage, Carlisle and Ridge Vineyards. Mancini Ranch is planted to mixed blacks and whites. 21 varieties have been identified from the original planting although most the acreage is dedicated to Zinfandel and Carignane.
Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Intriguing nose of red fruits, citrus and flowers. Medium body with mouth watering acidity. Claret style Zinfandel. Cherry, blood orange, anise and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Super Zinfandel that is young and full of promise. Best over the next 5-7 years.
My rating: 93 points.
Review based on a sample provided by the winery.
The wine was recently released and is $39 at the winery and retail.
There is much to like about Reichwage Winery and I look forward to following this project in the years to come. Readers should strongly consider signing up for the mailing list. On my next visit to Sonoma I also have every intention of visiting the new tasting room.