2021 Robert Biale 'Black Chicken' Zinfandel

A classic California Zinfandel from Robert Biale Vineyards, showcasing dark fruits and spice, consistently scoring in the low to mid 90s.

Producer

Robert Biale Vineyards

Region

Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley, CA

Country

USA

Varietal

Zinfandel

Varietal Composition

100% Zinfandel

Specifications

2021

Vintage

2028

Drink By

ABV

Vinification

Hand harvested from several vineyards within this district, sorted 1st in the field and then in the winery, destemmed, and fermented in open tanks, before being aged in French oak barrels (25% new) for 14 months

Occasional wine note

Robert Biale Vineyards are committed to preserving the long history and grandeur of California Zinfandel. Indeed, they've been producing outstanding Zins since 1937 and today over 25% of their vineyards are dedicated to Zin production. This offering is just a quintessential Zinfandel offering with lots of dark fruits with a good amount of spice mixed in. There are no critic ratings to be found for 2020 or 2021, but these have shown well year in and year with low to mid 90s scores and Vivino scores that bottom out at 4.2. This is a classic representation and one that we really love.

What experts say about this wine

100

Winemaker Notes

Showing the influence of the breezy and fog-laced Oak Knoll District, the 2021 vintage offers rich, plush fruit, delicate acidity and a structure defined by well-ripened tannins. Layered notes of black cherry, raspberry, sandalwood, bergamot, cloves, blueberry, and balsam on the nose. Delicate, yet rich with plum compote, violets, and baking spice on the palate. An ideal vintage of the Black Chicken that, with proper cellaring, will continue to improve for the next 5-7 years.

100

pairing recommendation