Bucklin Winery was founded in 2000 by the four Bucklin siblings: Arden, Kate, Ted and Will. Will Bucklin has been a vintner for over 25 years, working in France, Australia, Sonoma, Mendocino and Oregon. Bucklin produces several Zinfandels and Grenache, a Cabernet Sauvignon and a White Field Blend.
Old Hill Ranch is a historic jewel. It was founded by William McPherson Hill in 1851. The vineyard came into the Bucklin family when it was purchased in 1981. Bucklin, Once & Future, Carlisle and Bedrock are the sole producers of wine from the vineyard.
The “Ancient Field Blend” is from a 12 acre block of vines that were planted in 1885. The vineyard is a mosaic of over two dozen grape varieties — primarily Zinfandel, but also Grenache, Alicante Bouchet, Petite Sirah, Mourvedre, Syrah, Carignane, and Tempranillo, to name a few. The grapes are co-fermented together. 12 Acres, 30 grape varieties, 1 wine.
Crimson in color. 15.3% ABV. Killer nose of red fruits, herbs and pepper. Medium body with mouthwatering acidity. Tremendous concentration and balance. Cherry, raspberry, blackberry and a hint of tobacco on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Stunning Zinfandel from an iconic vineyard. This will age well. Best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 95 points.
Bucklin gets very little press but I would highly suggest visiting their website and ordering a few bottles. The 2022 vintage of this wine will be released in a few weeks.
I wrote about Bucklin previously in A Visit with Will Bucklin at Old Hill Ranch. I wrote about Old Hill Ranch in Top 10 Old Vine Zinfandel Vineyards.