1974 Napa and Alexander Valleys Zinfandel
Winemaker's Notes
The 1974 Zinfandel is composed of grapes primarily grown on the Chateau’s estate. Harvested at an average of 23% to 24% sugar and .7% acid, these well-matured grapes fermented into a full-bodied (13.5% alcohol) wine with a promising, deep color. Malolactic fermentation was purposely prevented from running its natural course in order to retain varietal characteristics of spice and berries. Further enrichment was gained through the extraction of vanilla-like flavors from French Nevers and Yugoslavian oak barrels during ten months of aging.
Vintage Weather
Temperate Consistent. Cool spring with a touch of frost. Long, cool summer. Ideal ripening conditions during crush. Excellent, well-balanced fruit. A memorable vintage.
Tasting Notes
The finished wine exhibits abundant fruit and spice in the nose and on the palate, with plenty of soft tannins; and the vanilla-like flavors of oak provide for a rich, long lasting finish. The style of Zinfandel provides for immediate enjoyment and for further development of one to three years bottle age
Jerry E. Luper, Winemaker
Technical Data:
| Bottling Date: | July & August 1976 |
| Release Date: | March 1977 |
| Appellation: | Napa & Alexander Valleys |
| Sugar at Harvest: | 23º to 24º brix |
| Alcohol: | 13.5% |
| Total Acidity: | .60% |
