Description
Winemakers Notes
In the past, we have never had enough of this wine to satisfy demand. But finally, with us leasing and farming half of these 83-year-old vines, we have plenty for everyone! Well… at least plenty for everyone this year. Vintage 2010 is a whole other story! Approximately 12% of interplanted mixed blacks (Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir, Petite Sirah, Peloursin, Petit Bouschet, Bastardo, and others) were included in the final blend. All French oak, 24% percent new, and bottled unfined and unfiltered.
89% Zinfandel
11% Mixed Black Varieties (Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir, Petite Sirah, Peloursin, and others)
Tasting Notes
Medium-dark to opaque ruby-purple. Blackberry confiture and cassis are highlighted by notes of eucalyptus, peach, and spice. On the palate, medium-full to full-bodied but amazingly precise and focused, with flavors of blackberry and one of my favorite holiday desserts, persimmon pudding. Montafi has been on a roll lately with the 2007, 2008, and 2009 all besting previous vintages. Drinkable on release but given the verve and energy of this wine, enjoy from 2013 through 2019. (MRO – 3/15/11)
Critical Acclaim
93-95 points Wine Advocate (Review Date: 02/2011)
Composed of 89% Zinfandel and 11% mixed blacks, the dense purple-hued 2009 Zinfandel Montafi Ranch (a vineyard planted in 1926) is phenomenal. Dark, jammy black raspberry notes intermixed with sweet black cherries, blackberries, licorice, charcoal and underbrush are present in this complex, full-bodied, massive yet impressively well-balanced offering. (RP)
91 points Wine Spectator (Review Date: 06/2011)
Deeply structured and still showing its youth, with boysenberry and fresh sage aromas leading to concentrated flavors of tart blueberry, anise and cracked pepper. Finishes with firm tannins. (TF)
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