2012 The Watcher Zinfandel

()

$34 (retail) Wine Club pricing reflected in receipt

Adam and Tammy Webb are such huge fans of zinfandel, they were married in one of the most legendary zin plots in Napa: Howell Mountain’s Black Sears Vineyard.  That was in 2003; their daughter was baptized there two years later.

And in 2009, the pair created Gardienne des Vignes Winery, focusing on “. . .old vine and heritage sites of zinfandel and petite sirah, which we consider the “Jewels” of the valley. Witnessing many of these great old vineyards being pulled out as the demand for Napa cabernet grew and the new generation began to take over control of family vineyards, we were determined to become involved with some of our favorite vineyards and try to help insure their legacy. The spirit of these Old Vine Zinfandel and Petite Sirah vines and the people that tend to them is the very essence from which Gardienne des Vignes was born.

It helps that Adam had a world class mentor in Ray Coursen, owner of Elyse Winery in Napa and a long-time friend of Carpe Vino.  Adam worked for Ray and no doubt is where he learned about the Korte Ranch Vineyard where the zinfandel fruit for this selection was sourced.

Winery Tasting Notes:  “The 2012 displays a saturated deep ruby color with bright aromatics of juicy black fruits, from wild raspberries to black raspberries to marion berry and black cherry.  The exuberant fruit is rounded out by touches of white pepper, cigar box, savory spices and vanilla cream. Medium- full bodied in style with a rich texture that coats the palate in lavish fruit flavors and intriguing spices. Shows power, purity and a lively acidity with powdery, dusty tannins providing structure while maintaining a deft balance through the intense and lengthy finish.”

 Blend:  100% zinfandel

Wine Spectator Points:

Wine Advocate Points:

Alcohol Level: %

Cases Produced:

Winemaker Name: