2023 Robert Biale Vineyards 'Black Chicken' Zinfandel

Aromas of bright raspberry, boysenberry, and violets integrate with notes of star anise and black tea. The palate is lush and velvety, featuring flavors of ripe plum and cinnamon that lead to a structured finish with balanced acidity and refined tannins.

The winemaking team led by Tres Goetting utilizes sustainable farming for these heritage vines. In the cellar, the fruit undergoes a gentle fermentation in open-top tanks with regular punch-downs to extract color and flavor without bitterness. The wine matures for fourteen months in French oak barrels, of which 20% are new, to add a hint of spice while maintaining the purity of the Zinfandel fruit.

The fruit is sourced primarily from the historic Oak Knoll District in the southern part of Napa Valley. This location is defined by its cooling afternoon breezes and morning fog from the San Pablo Bay, which allow for a longer growing season. The deep, well-drained alluvial soils and moderate temperatures ensure the grapes develop full phenolic ripeness while retaining their characteristic freshness.