Robert Biale Zinfandel Napa Valley Grande Vineyard 2006

Winemaker's Notes:

In 1921, Theodosio Grande planted a vineyard along Napa’s Silverado Trail. Having traveled from the region near Venice, Italy, several years before, Theodosio did what so many immigrants to California from so many countries did in those days – raised vegetables, chickens and eggs and planted walnut and fruit trees and the ever-popular Zinfandel. Years later, Theodosio’s daughter, Dorothy, married Giusti (Gus) Rossi and it was Gus and Dorothy who tended the vineyard and worked the ranch after Theo’s passing. Gus became known for his talents as a winemaker with a special interest in what we used to call Champagne but now refer to as Sparkling Wine. Today, where the handmade sign at the drive-way still advertises “prunes”, an old barn still houses a wagon and the pickers’ crates, and the big tank in the oak tree still serves as the water supply for the farmhouse, Dorothy and her son Anthony work day to day caring for Theo’s original vines along with the orchard and younger vineyards on the family ranch. When Biale started making Zinfandel from the old vines in 2002, we named the wine “Grande Vineyard” after Dorothy’s father in tribute to his devotion and the family’s immigrant spirit. And, as we are known to say, “Grande indeed.” Fruit from this dry-farmed head-trained vineyard on the border of the Oak Knoll District not far from our winery, has what we call “old fashioned” Zinfandel characteristics: wild blackberries, dried plum, baking spices, and a twist of black pepper. On the palate, this Zinfandel is mouth-filling with good zesty acidity to balance the impact of the huge fruit. Bold, rich and spicy but gentle to the touch, this Grande is a rare treat for lovers of Zinfandel. Just 400 cases made.