Bruce Patch cut his teeth in the music industry — having once met the Beatles and helped to discover the famous 80’s band, The Cars. Bruce moved to the Russian River Valley in the late 1990’s, and transitioned his sales and marketing background into a successful distribution business representing small independent wineries in Sonoma County. Bruce Patch Wines sources grapes from throughout Sonoma County, including many notable vineyards like Coffaro and Harris-Kratka.
The winery recently sent me their new releases to sample.
2020 Bruce Patch Zinfandel Old Vine Dry Creek Valley – Bright crimson in color. 16.1% ABV. 82% Zinfandel, 8% Petite Sirah, 5% Alicante Bouschet, 3% Carignane and 2% Chasselas Dore. Sublime nose of red fruits, licorice and pepper. Medium to full bodied with mouth watering acidity. Packed with bright, juicy fruits. Cherry, raspberry liqueur, anise and pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Absolutely delicious Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel. Best over the next 3-5 years. $42 at the winery and retail. My rating: 94 points.
2019 Bruce Patch Zinfandel Harris Kratka Vineyard – Dark crimson in color. 16.1% ABV. Zinfandel with Carignane and Petite Sirah. Gorgeous nose of black fruits, cocoa and pepper. Medium body with medium acidity. Well balanced, Claret style Zinfandel. Black cherry, strawberry and earth on the palate. Nice length on the finish. Best over the next 2-4 years. $38 at the winery and retail. My rating: 92 points.
Bruce Patch is honing his craft, making wines from up and coming vineyards and selling them at fair prices. Proceed accordingly.