2009 Saini Farms Zinfandel, bottled 05/22/2011

Despite welcome late-spring rains, the growing season got off to an early start in 2009. Significant heat throughout July ripened the grapes for harvest in early September. The vineyard parcels were picked separately, fermented on their two different yeasts, and were pressed at dryness. In tastings following malolactic, we chose this lot to exemplify the vintage. The ratio of new oak was reduced slightly, to allow full expression of the wine’s fruit and inherent elegance. Enjoyable upon release, this opulent—though structured—SV Saini Zinfandel will evolve over the next ten years.

      2009 Three Stewges California Zinfandel, bottled 05/22/2011

The Yorba Linda Estate grapes took their time to wake up and start growing--possibly due to the lower than normal temperatures. However, the grapes were able to get on course and mature as necessary. By mid-August the grapes appeared to be nearing harvest time and in early September they reached their potential. The grapes fermented on two different yeasts and pressed at dryness. The Yorba Linda grapes were later blended with 90 gallons of Saini Farms Zinfandel which enhanced depth and complexity.

                     2008 Saini Sangiovese (20% Zinfandel)

These grapes all came from the Western Dry Creek Valley of Northern California. Mid-August heat accelerated maturation, and we harvested this 100% Saini Farms Sangiovese at ideal ripeness. It was hand picked from two distinctly different blocks very early September 1st, 2008. One block on the fertile valley floor and the other on a grassy hillside. In both cases, 3015 pounds of grapes were immediately driven 500 miles south. After being crushed and destemmed early the following morning at our winery in Yorba Linda, the resulting must was transferred to indoor stainless steel.

                                   2008 Three Stewges

Estate Sangiovese, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Dry Creek Valley “2nd harvest” Zinfandel, make up our true California Red blend. The Estate field blend was hand picked September 2nd, 2008. The Zinfandel was hand picked very early October 6th, then immediately driven 500 miles south.