2022 Seghesio Sonoma County Zinfandel, California

On the nose, the wine offers vibrant aromas of red raspberry, Santa Rosa plum, and fresh blackberry, leading to a palate that is lively and textured, with succulent fruit flavors and a finish of silky, supple tannins. This Zinfandel is a testament to the cooler growing season, where crisp, freshly picked fruit flavors shine, beautifully preserved by cool nights and an extended ripening period.

The 2022 vintage is composed of 88% Zinfandel, complemented by 5% Petite Sirah, 1% Alicante Bouschet, and 6% mixed reds, resulting in a wine that is both bold and nuanced.

Seghesio Family Vineyards, established in 1895 by Italian immigrant Edoardo Seghesio, has a storied history in Sonoma County. The winery has remained dedicated to producing exceptional Zinfandel and Italian varietal wines from its sustainably farmed estate vineyards.

While the Seghesio family sold the winery in 2011, the commitment to quality remains steadfast. Notably, Michaella Goldner serves as Associate Winemaker alongside Andy Robinson who has been with the winery for over 20 years, contributing her expertise to the winemaking team. Segehsio has the oldest Italian planted vineyards in North America and holds strong to tradition and innovation while still bringing forth the spirit of the varietals from across the Atlantic.

In comparison to Italian Primitivo, which shares the same genetic roots as Zinfandel, the Seghesio Zinfandel tends to exhibit more robust fruit flavors and higher alcohol content, reflecting the warmer climate of California's Sonoma County. Primitivo wines from Italy often present a more restrained profile with earthy undertones, whereas Seghesio's Zinfandel is known for its bold, ripe fruit character and vibrant acidity.

The 2022 Seghesio Sonoma County Zinfandel has garnered critical acclaim, earning a 93-point rating from Wine Spectator, which praised its "vivacious and briary" character, highlighting flavors of blackberry, licorice, and orange peel that zip along the zesty finish.