Robert Biale Vineyards in Napa has its roots in the 1930s, when the Biale family started growing Zinfandel grapes and other produce on the outskirts of Napa. The family grapes mostly were sold to local wineries, though the Biales saved some to make wine for the family. The winery was formally founded in 1991. The estate grows Zinfandel and Petite Sirah on 25 acres in Napa Valley.
The heart of this wine is sourced from vineyards in the Oak Knoll District, among them the same family vineyard Aldo, Nonna, Bob and the Biale family have farmed their whole lives. Back in the 1940’s, Aldo Biale and his mother Christina ran a small farm and vineyard with hundreds of white leghorn chickens. A “black chicken” became the code name for a jug of Aldo’s private Zinfandel.
Crimson in color. 14.8% ABV. Gorgeous nose of red fruits, plums, baking spices and flowers. Medium body with mouth watering acidity and exceptional balance. Rich and savory with expansive, bright fruits. Raspberry, strawberry, cherry cordial and pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Biale has always been at the pinnacle of Napa Valley Zinfandel and the Black Chicken is the cream of the crop. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 94 points.
Biale deserves to be mentioned with the likes of Carlisle, Ridge and Turley when discussing California Zinfandel. The wines are widely available at retail but you will get a slight discount with a Biale membership. I look forward to visiting on my next trip to Napa.