NOTES: Llano Estacado 2004 Zinfandel
is a blend of 80% Zinfandel and 20%
Merlot. The Zinfandel grapes originate
from the Mont Sec Vineyard of Far West
Texas while the Merlot is from the
Rising Star Vineyard. The Mont Sec
vineyard is unique to Texas as it was
planted on a high desert plateau some
3,700 feet above sea level. At the
higher elevation, on sandy reflective
soils, Mont Sec vineyard dissipates the
heat of the day quickly, resulting in
relatively cool nights. Cooler night
temperatures reduce the metabolic rate
of the vines during the important
"nighttime reactions". Because the plant
metabolism is slowed at night, grapes
tend to balance better and develop more
completely at harvest; producing wines
with richer tannins, lower pH, better
acid balance and deeper color.
Try our Zinfandel with full flavor meats
such as veal chops, or a peppered rib
eye steak with grilled vegetables. This
wine shows aromas of blackberries with
subtle vanillin and American oak tones.
It will improve in complexity with age
and may be at its best by 2006. |