Vintages: 2006 2001 2000 1998 1996 1995 1994 1993 Ratings

1996 Old Vine Zinfandel

I think its got lots of sweet cherries, you know, that sweet fruit. Oh, with the coconut-vanilla oak in the background. Yow! How about ripe blackberries - loads of them, like the inside of a pie. That's it!

240 cases bottled on May 16, 1998

Cost: US$ 22.00

SOLD OUT

Ratings

Intense brambly spice, black plum and licorice aromas and flavors. Very full bodied and highly extracted with layers of fleshy fruit and smoky oak. Broad, muscular and dense on the palate with ever-expanding depth and complexity; let this baby open for an hour or two before serving. Outstanding length with nuances of chocolate/mocha on the finish. Given the price of many top quality Zins, this is a steal.

Bob Cranston, The Wine Authority - 7/98

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Old Vine Zinfandel Wine Information

Nils Venge has been making Zinfandel since 1992. The majority of each vintage has come from Zinfandel grapes grown on the floor of the Napa Valley near St. Helena, California. In 1994, an additional small lot of grapes came from the Monte Rosso vineyard in Sonoma which is owned by the Martini Family. Nils always blends a little Cabernet Sauvignon into each vintage to add depth. Our Zinfandel is always treated to 100% brand new American oak and is no exception to the rule of "meal-in-a-glass" Zinfandels. The Saddleback Zinfandel has gained quite a reputation as a "monster Zin" and is in great demand. This wine has a track record of selling out within 30-45 days of release.

Our Zinfandel is always treated to 100% new American oak barrels. This meaty giant is no exception to the rule of "meal-in-a-glass" Zinfandels.

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