Franc Dusak is a third generation winemaker, but the first in his family to make wines from the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. His father and grandfather grew winegrapes and made wine in Slovenia, which they sold under their own brand and through a cooperative while Franc was growing up. Franc’s wines are available at Naked Wines.
2021 Franc Dusak Zinfandel Pagani Ranch – Dark crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Sublime nose of red fruits, peach and baking spices. Medium body with medium acidity. Claret style Zinfandel with bold fruits and impeccable balance. Black cherry, raspberry, mulberry and pepper on the palate. The finish is long and supple. Impressive debut Zinfandel from Franc Dusak that clearly does justice to the iconic Pagani Ranch. Best over the next 3-5 years. My rating: 92 points.
2021 Franc Dusak Alicante Bouschet Pagani Ranch – Bright crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, licorice and pepper. Medium body with medium acidity. Rich and lush with earthy fruits. Cherry, black raspberry, cranberry and pepper on the palate. Nice length on the finish. This wine makes a solid case for Alicante Bouschet as a stand alone variety. Best over the next 4-6 years. My rating: 93 points.
2021 Franc Dusak Red Wine Pagani Ranch – Bright crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. 52% Primitivo, 32% Zinfandel and 16% Alicante Bouschet. Savory nose of black fruits, anise and pepper. Full bodied with mouth watering acidity. Bursting with dark, juicy fruits. Blackberry, black cherry, earth and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Delicious wine that will age well. Best over the next 6-8 years. My rating: 94 points.
Reviews based on samples provided by the winery.
I wrote about Pagani Ranch previously in Top 10 Old Vine Zinfandel Vineyards.
It is clear from these wines that Franc Dusak will be a tremendous steward of the fruit from Pagani Ranch and I look forward to following the wines in the years to come.