1978 California Zinfandel
Winemaker's Notes
1978 was a very warm year that produced wines of great strength and extract. The combination of very mature fruit and the Chateau’s unique methods of production have resulted in a wine of rich depth and varietal charm. Only grapes from the coastal regions can achieve this balance. The 1978 is 69% Napa Valley and 31 % Paso Robles.
Vintage Weather
Temperate Consistent. Good winter rains. Long and warm growing season. Late heat led to a somewhat compressed harvest. High extract and body with well-balanced fruit.
Tasting Notes
Pronounced loganberry fruitiness dominates the nose. Again, a seemingly sweet taste belies the totally dry finishing in the cellars. There is plenty of tannin to support the bottle age this wine deserves to round out its big character and flavor.
Jerry E. Luper, Winemaker
Technical Data:
| Harvest Dates: | Sept. 27 to Oct. 12 |
| Bottling Date: | August 1980 |
| Release Date: | April 1981 |
| Appellation: | California |
| Time in Oak: | 12 months |
| Sugar at Harvest: | 25.0º brix |
| Alcohol: | 14.4% |
| Total Acidity: | .60g/100ml |
