Arnot-RobertsMokelumneRiverKirschenmannZinfandel

The Kirschenmann Vineyard is one of California’s most unique vineyards, a small site located in a bend of Lodi’s Mokelumne River. Planted in 1915 to entirely own-rooted Zinfandel, Carignane, Cinsault, and Mondeuse Noir, these gnarled old vines thrive under the expert stewardship of one of California’s greatest viticulturalists, Tegan Passalacqua. Each year, the Arnot-Roberts team are lucky enough to be offered just one ton of this fruit, enough to vinify only nine barrels of Zinfandel. We’re extremely grateful Arnot-Roberts are willing to undertake this labour of love, as the result is truly extraordinary. In keeping with the Arnot-Roberts style, this wine is made in the more restrained, balanced style of Zinfandel. But don’t let that fool you for a second. It still shows all the alluring, silky texture one expects from California Zinfandel, alongside flavours of ripe red berries and touches of oak spice. Simply superb.

94/100 �This is from a famous Mokelumne River own-rooted vineyard planted in 1915. Juicy, taut and fresh with supple berry fruits and hints of pepper. Juicy and linear with a nice green streak and a bit if crunch, as well as some bitter orange. Fresh and elegant. �Dr. Jamie Goode, WineAnorak