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.
Anne Teller, the Bucklin’s mother, has been farming commercially in Sonoma Valley since the late 1970’s. Her 50-acre farm includes the Upper 5th Vineyard, a century old, one-acre vineyard that is promiscuously interplanted with nut and fruit trees. The vineyard is 67% Zinfandel, 19% Peloursin, 8% Petite Sirah, 3% Carignane and 3% French Colombard.
Crimson in color. 15.3% ABV. Savory nose of black fruit, roasted herbs and pepper. Medium body with medium acidity. Packed with dark, supple fruits. Black cherry, boysenberry, plums and a generous amount of white pepper on the palate. The finish is long and smooth. The best version of this wine going back many vintages. I’ll open my last bottle in 2028.
My rating: 93 points.
Bucklin gets very little press but I would highly suggest visiting their website and ordering a few bottles. The 2025 vintage of this wine will be released early next year.