Peterson Tollini Vineyard "Traditional Old School" Zinfandel

Alcohol: 16.4%

Grape(s): Zinfandel

Localization: Mendocino, California, USA

Tasting Notes: Taking it back to when Zin was easy-drinking and no thinking! Dry-farmed, head-trained, gnarly zinfandel vines farmed by the Tollini family that were planted in the 1970s in the heart of Mendocino are no bull! Easy tannins and bright natural acidity carry the layers of juicy fruit and zesty spice. Whether having a dinner party, barbecuing, relaxing after work, or on a weekend getaway, there's never a wrong time to make it old school.

The Domain: The Tollini Vineyard is located in Mendocino County's Redwood Valley and has been in the Tollini family for three generations, now in the hands of Alvin Tollini. The Mendo Blendo is made up of predominantly Petit Sirah, where the vines are traditionally head trained and dry farmed. The Carignan blocks were originally planted by Alvin Tollini’s father and grandfather and old-vine, low yielding Carignan remains from the original plantings and produces concentrated, flavoursome fruit. Alvin’s father added to the acreage after he returned from WWII. The Syrah and Grenache were planted by Alvin using the same time-honoured techniques and sustainable approach and they add layers of depth, complexity and balance to the blend. The vines are planted on southwest facing benches in the Redwood Valley and are cultivated with a meticulously sustainable approach. The only treatment used in the vineyard is sulphur dusting, if required, and the vines are harvested by hand.

The gentlest winemaking techniques were employed to maximise flavours, aromas and the original essence of the grapes from the given vineyard and vintage. Spontaneous fermentation took place with natural yeasts and punch-downs and rackings to help the wine develop. The wine was then barrel-aged for 22 months in 18% new American oak, 22% two-year old European oak and 60% neutral barrels.