2017 La Storia Block 303 ZInfandel by Trentadue

A trip back in time: In the late 1950s, the Trentadue family decided to leave Sunnyvale, California, because their family operation of vineyards and orchards was being encroached on by developers. To those of you who know California history all that well, Sunnyvale is now known as Silicon Valley. Fifty years from orchards, to suburbs, to the world’s third largest economy? Who knew?!

And this turned out better for us. The agricultural family found greener pastures in Alexander Valley. In addition to fruits and vegetables, they also found some of the oldest Zinfandel vines in the land, prompting them to engage in wine farming as well. This is Block 303, the oldest vines on the estate, some of them dating back 100 years. The vine material was already there a century ago, but then about a decade ago the Trentadue family hired rock star winemaker Miro Tcholakov.

Miro is no stranger to Zinfandel blends. Originally from northern Bulgaria, he applied for and received a Future Farmer’s of America grant to participate in harvest at one of our favorite wineries – Dry Creek Vineyards. There, what was an internship turned into a nine-year position, as Miro eventually moved up the ranks to assistant winemaker. A jump to head winemaker at Trentadue and these 100-year-old vines from Block 303 mean that we’re in for an absolute treat:

This wine is classic Alexander Valley Zinfandel. Alex’s distinct aromatic character—Morello cherries, ripe plums and hints of a spiciness – comes through immediately on the nose. Think black fruit aromatized with a touch of brambliness. The taste is an abundance of ripe fruit – more dark cherries, accented with wild berries, baking spices and a faint hint of pepper—all dancing over the palate. This wine is smooth, round, velvety and delicious. The vines provide richness, concentration, supple mouthfeel and robust flavors – everything in want in a Zinfandel. Perfect as a cocktail, it also makes for a magnificent accompaniment to your bold grilled cuisine.

The Trentadue family offered us an amazing price, and we didn’t hesitate to take it. Nor should you.