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 November Zinfandel of the Month is the 2018 A. Rafanelli Zinfandel.
I chose this wine as my Zinfandel of the Month in anticipation of the release of the 2023 early next year.
Alberto Rafanelli, an Italian immigrant, first founded A. Rafanelli Winery in the early 1900’s. It wasn’t until the early 70’s that Alberto’s son, Americo, came out with the present day label and started selling the wine commercially. David and Patty Rafanelli now run the winery and a 4th generation Rafanelli, their daughter Shelly, is the winemaker. The winery is perhaps best known for their Zinfandel but also produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with all the fruit sourced from their vineyard in Dry Creek Valley.
Purple in color. 14.8% ABV. Sublime nose of dark fruits, baking spices and earth. Full bodied with perfect acidity. Packed with savory, black fruits. Black cherry, blackberry compote, plums and pepper on the palate. The finish is long and supple. Delicious, hearty Zinfandel that embodies the best the Dry Creek Valley has to offer. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 93 points.
The 2023 Zinfandel will be released early next year.
Rafanelli finally allows one to 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 when you are passing through the Dry Creek Valley.