1996 Mazzoni Home Ranch

This year we harvested grapes from the surviving turn-of-the-century zinfandel vineyards on the old Mazzoni Home Ranch just north of Geyserville. Giuseppe Mazzoni started making wine at the ranch circa 1910. His son Fred made the last wines there in 1978, two years before his death. Ten years ago the land was sold to its present owner, Nick Oltranti. The Mazzonis were great believers in the value of each varietal to a field blend. The vineyards were extensively interplanted with Carignane-which adds elegance, and petite sirah-which contributes depth and spice. Just over a year in air-dried american oak barrels has softened the tough initial tannins, and accentuated the sweet, exotic fruit of the “mixed black” varietals. Well-structured, yet very appealing, this fine wine will be at its best over the next four to five years.

Giuseppe Mazzoni first made wine at the home ranch just north of Geyserville around 1910. His son Fred made the last wines there two years before his death in 1978. Ten years ago the land was sold to its present owner, Nick Oltranti, who has maintained the old vineyards.

Average Rating: 90

No. of Tasting Notes: 4

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