Forchini Vineyards & Winery – 2006 Old Vine Zinfandel
February 10, 2010
The Facts:
The 2006 Forchini Vineyards Dry Creek Valley, Old Vine Zinfandel, Proprietor’s Reserve was aged for 20 months in 40% new American oak. It was co-fermented with small amounts of Carignane. The grapes were produced from 90+ year old non-irrigated head pruned vines grown on Forchini’s own Dry Creek Bench Vineyard. 1002 cases were produced. The suggested retail price is $23.99
Dave’s Take:
Having had many Dry Creek Valley Zinfandels, when I come across one that is left of center I can’t help but take notice. Perhaps it’s the co-fermentation with Carignane; perhaps it’s in the technique used in growing the grapes. Maybe the soil is just a little different than everyone else’s or the winemaker has a very unique style. I expect all of these play a bit of a role, as they usually do, regardless this is a wine worth seeking.
Aromas of berry fruit mixed with a touch of smoked meat and spice. The palate is filled with vibrant cherry and blackberry. There is a bit of raisin and anise on the mid-palate. The medium finish exposes a hint of mint and spice. Nicely balanced with decent tannins, make this selection a good buy for the $24 asking price.
Once you get hooked on wine, you find yourself drawn to the art of it all. Check this winery out; I am sure their tasting room is filled with surprises. Whether or not the wines become your favorite, I do believe that this winery will stand out after a day of tasting.
Please vote for Drink Dry Creek!
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Greetings, Gabe: A belated thank you for the excellent review of Forchini 2006 Old Vine Zinfandel…these vines “survive” today on our Dry Creek Bench because when it was recommended in the 80s to pull out old vines, we could not do so as were raising children and needed the production grape money. Please stop by if you are attending Passport or Zintopia for a quick tour and tasting, if possible. Jim Forchini’s Proprietor’s Reserve Dry Creek Cabernet is consistent vintage to vintage, a smooth, supple Cab (Jim’s wine style is suppleness and delicacy). Just let us know if you’d like to taste the current vintage Cab. I believe when we sent you the Zin 06 we also sent you BeauSierra, our Bordeaux blend. Papa Nonno, our Zin based commenrative wine to Jim’s Tuscan grandfather is an excellent value wine, super for that glass before dinner and during dinner. Looking forward to hearing from you and many thanks for your promotion of Dry Creek wines. Anita Forchini