This wine is an homage to the struggle and inventiveness of Italian families in Napa Valley during the Great Depression. Big black-fruited Zinfandels are part of the history of Napa Valley, and this one holds to tradition. My wife describes it as “pretty”, which is hardly a wine term one would apply to Zinfandel, but I agree. The fruit is delightful.
Deep Ruby in the glass, fruit forward and floral on the nose, this wine is juicy with pleasant acidity, full-bodied with a long, rich finish. I could sip this after dinner as a digestive, but of course, also paired with roast lamb, pork or beef burgers.
This is an excellent wine and a tribute to the Biale Family, who started making jug wine in the 1940s and sold it by phone using party lines and the code name “Black Chicken”. It’s the stories that sell wine these days, and are shared verbally the way humans have always communicated. Drink this now with friends family and food, or hold five to seven years for its fullest expression.
Take a look at winemaker David’s thoughtful and well-written interview to learn more.