Louis M. Martini Zinfandel Gnarly Vine Monte Rosso Vineyard NV 750ml

Vibrant aromas of pomegranate and red currant burst from the glass and are complemented by hints of white pepper and black tea. The focused palate unveils the earthiness of Monte Rosso vineyard with notes of crushed clay, Sichuan pepper with citrus overtones of pine and a toasted, brown spice finish. Incredibly balanced, this wine showcases energetic acidity and intent tannins that carry through the long finish.

• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Appellation: Sonoma Valley
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 15.9%

Varietal

Zinfandel

The precise origins of what became known as the Zinfandel grape variety are uncertain, although it has clear genetic equivalents in both Puglia and Croatia. However, when it was brought to the New World in the mid 19th century, it became known as the Zinfandel, and has been consistently popular and widely grown ever since. These very dark and very round grapes have a remarkably high sugar content, resulting in relatively high levels of alcohol in the wines they are made into, with bottles often displaying as much as fifteen percent. What makes the Zinfandel such an interesting grape, though, is the fact that the flavors produced by this varietal vary considerably depending on the climate they are grown in. In cooler valley regions, the Zinfandel grapes result in wines which hold strong flavors of tart and sweet fruits; raspberry, redcurrant and sweet cherry, held in a very smooth and silky liquid. Conversely, warmer regions result in more complex and spicy notes, including anise, pepper and hedgerow berries.