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 May Zinfandel of the Month is the 2021 Hartford Family Winery Zinfandel Russian River Valley Old Vine.
I chose this wine as my Zinfandel of the Month as I just purchased the 2022 vintage and I don’t suspect it will be readily available much longer. Don’t delay if you want an exceptional Zinfandel for your cellar.
Hartford Family Winery was founded in 1994 as a result of Don and Jennifer Hartford’s appreciation for the wines, the people, and the unique vineyards near their Russian River Valley home. Located in the Sonoma County town of Forestville, the winery is about 15 miles from the cool Pacific Coast. Jeff Stewart is the Hartford Family Winemaker.
Crimson in color. 15.5% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, peach, anise and pepper. Medium body with medium acidity. Well balanced with bright, jammy fruits. Raspberry compote, wild strawberries, cranberry and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Not as fruit forward as my last several bottles but absolutely delicious. Best over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 93 points.
Hartford is on a great run with their Russian River Valley Old Vine Zinfandel for over a decade now. It is now a must buy for me every vintage. The ’22 version, at $40 or so a bottle, is available and worth seeking out.