2016 Three Wine Company Zinfandel Evangelho Vineyard Contra Costa County

The deep, sandy, far-flung Evangelho Vineyard sits well away from the big-money epicenter of California wine, yet its vines—which were planted in 1885—produce grapes that few vineyards in Napa or elsewhere can match. The tiny, concentrated berries have attracted just about every old-vine master in the state: Bedrock, Turley, Ravenswood, Ridge, and Neyers have all made Evangelho wines.  

But none fashions a more incredible bottle than Matt Cline of Three Wine Co., and this bottle clearly displays what makes this site so prized. Deep ruby with crimson-pink hues at the rim, it’s got aromas of black plum, red currants, blackberry, and kirsch, accented by purple flowers, spicy potpourri, cinnamon stick, and anise. The wine is ripe, warm, rich, and drinking in perfect stride right now, displaying beautiful balance and concentration on the finish. 

The vines at Evangelho remain on their own roots, having withstood phylloxera because the pest cannot survive in sandy soils. Despite the dry climate, the vines have never been irrigated, and thrive by digging 40 daunting feet through alluvial sand to the water below. Because the vines, and the vineyard itself, have proven to be such survivors, the legend of Evangelho grows—and so does the waiting list for its fruit. 

As one who recognized Evangelho’s value long ago, Matt Cline is always at the front of the line, and he’s good enough to reserve some of every vintage for Wine Access. It’s a snapshot of California viticultural history, and a truly stunning wine.

• Fruit Intensity
• Oak Intensity
• Body
• Acidity
• Tannin

• ABV 15.40%
• Enjoy right away
• Now – 2027
• 81% Zinfandel16% Petite Sirah2% Carignan1% Alicante Bouschet
• Serving temperature – 62°
• Cork