CARLISLE ZINFANDEL CARLISLE VYD RRV 2021

Carlisle Winery & Vineyards, founded in 1998 by self-taught home winemakers Mike and Kendall Officer, specializes in producing small-lot, world-class wines from exceptional California vineyards. Focusing on Zinfandel and Rhone-based varieties, they source fruit from some of Sonoma County s finest old-vine vineyards, including their flagship Carlisle Vineyard, planted in the 1920s. Mike Officer made his mark with Zinfandel and Syrah from premier locations in Dry Creek, Russian River, and Alexander Valley. Carlisle s wines are known for their distinctive sense of place, layered fruit flavors, and balancing acidity. The winery s approach emphasizes minimal intervention, relying on uninoculated fermentations and limited use of new oak to produce wines that remain true to their vintage and vineyard origins. The 2021 Russian River Valley Carlisle Vineyard Zinfandel is a field blend from Carlisle Winery s estate vineyard, planted in 1927. It consists of 87% Zinfandel and 13% mixed black varieties, including Alicante Bouschet, Petite Sirah, Grand Noir, Peloursin, Trousseau noir, Tempranillo, Carignan, Muscadelle, Malvasia, Muscat, Clairette blanche, and 28 other varieties. Despite drought conditions, 2021 yielded a successful harvest, with production tying a 25-year high. The winemaking process involved multiple picking passes, cold soaking, and extended skin contact, with 19% new French oak used. The resulting wine is described as intensely fruited and food-friendly, featuring aromas of raspberries and blood orange, with a full-bodied palate rich in red berry and cherry flavors. Boasting juicy acidity and a long finish, this Zinfandel is enjoyable upon release and is expected to age well through 2033. Only 760 cases were produced for this vintage.