2014 Beau Vigne Haypress Zinfandel

Beau Vigne in Napa Valley was founded in 2002 by Ed and Trish Snider. Their Stags Ridge Vineyard is in the Atlas Peak appellation and includes nine acres planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot. Beau Vigne also sources grapes from nearby, select vineyards. Ed Snider descends from a family of Swiss and Italian winemakers who made wine in Napa Valley in the early 20th century. Beau Vigne is known for its Cabernet Sauvignons, but also produces Merlot, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Robert M. Parker Jr. has called Beau Vigne “one of my favorite unheralded producers in Napa Valley. The wines have off-the-charts richness, great balance, and the potential to be aged for 20 or more years. There is a striking purity and intensity to these wines that merits attention.”

Sonoma Coast AVA runs from San Pablo Bay in the south to Mendocino County in the north. It includes 7,000 vineyard acres and earned AVA status in 1987. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean means it gets double the rainfall of nearby inland appellations and the ocean gives the appellation a relatively cool climate. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can thrive in these conditions, and there are numerous producers making critically acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Zinfandel is a black-skinned grape, but 85% of the wine produced is made into a rosy “White Zinfandel.” Red Zin is far more complex and bold, while still being light-bodied. It grows in popularity as winemakers continue to experiment with new styles and blends.