Dear Friends,

We are pleased to bring you the latest news from Zichichi Family Vineyard and to offer you the opportunity to purchase our wines from the 2005 vintage.  In retrospect, 2005 was considered to be a very good growing season.  It started out quite cold and wet with a very late bud break.  Throughout the season, the temperatures were generally cool except for some hot days in July.  The grapes were harvested on September 1^st and 2^nd, fermented dry, and then aged in a mixture of French and American Oak for 18 months.  The wines were bottled unfiltered and unfined. 

The 2005 Zichichi Family Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel from our Dry Creek Valley Estate grapes is a medium-bodied wine with a beautiful garnet color.  The bouquet reveals raspberry and red cherry aromas which are also the dominant tastes on the palate.  The wine, which has a long jammy finish, is a perfect example of the varietal.  It will be sumptuous on release and will continue to improve for 5-8 years.

The 2005 Zichichi Family Vineyard Petite Sirah has a dark, inky color and a nose that exhibits hints of lavender and violet.  The color and texture would seem to imply that an enormous tannic monster lies waiting for you in the glass, but what a surprise you experience as the wine exudes  wonderful velvety smooth flavors of blueberry and blackberry.  The mid-palate and finish are well-rounded and the wine, which is very balanced, will pair well with roasted meats and pasta dishes.  This beautiful petite sirah can be enjoyed in it’s youth or aged for 10-15 years.

All members of our mailing list are invited to arrange a private tasting and tour at our new facility.