writer`s block zinfandel 2011

WRITER’S BLOCK ZINFANDEL 2011
VINEYARDS
Robin Hill vineyard is the source of this Zinfandel. Second generation
grape-grower Jeff Lyon manages the vineyard, located in the Northern
part of the county, not far above the shores of Clearlake. The viticultural
materials, techniques, climate, and soils combine to produce a Zinfandel
that shows both the fresh juicy fruit and more ripe character of the
variety. Spice, tobacco, and cocoa are also characteristics of the vineyard.
SEASON
2011 was a very cool growing season with scattered rains throughout
the year and harvest. A cool spring and summer were punctuated by
late season heat spikes. The heat spikes did finally ripen the grapes,
although special care had to be taken throughout the process for
optimum quality. Harvest conditions were difficult although the
conditions produced lighter and more focused wines, with higher
levels of natural acid.
WINE STYLE & TASTING NOTES
Somewhere in that balance between cool and hot climate zinfandel,
this wine has both a fresh and vibrant aspect, as well as some
richness, ripeness, and depth of flavor. Red and dark berry fruit
combines with subtle oak, minty herbal complexities along with a
touch of earthiness. A small percentage of Petite Sirah is blended
into this wine as a traditional measure for structure.
FOOD PAIRINGS
The flavors of this Zinfandel are bold and supple. Recipes from
the grill such as, chicken, pork, and red-meat pair well with it.
Our favorite dishes tend to be richer southern Italian or other
Mediterranean dishes.
ELEVATION Avg. 1400ft BLEND 94% Zinfandel, 6% Petite Sirah APPELLATION Lake County
HARVEST DATES September 20th, 2011 ALCOHOL 14.1% BRIX Average 26.5
FERMENTATION Average 21 days at 82°F pH 3.71 TA .57g/100mL BARREL AGING 12
months in French, American, and Hungarian oak; 25% new oak VINE AGE Avg. 15 years
YIELDS 3-4 tons per acre RESIDUAL SUGAR Dry YEAST Native Ferments PRODUCTION
1200 cases
Writer’s Block Wines… …Steele Wines Inc…Kelseyville, CA…(ph) 707 279 9475…(fx) 707 279 9633…www.steelewines.com…