1998 St. Francis Pagani Vineyard Reserve Zinfandel

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards is in Sonoma County. It was founded in 1971 by Joe Martin who planted 22 acres of Chardonnay and 60 acres of Merlot. Today the estate is part of the Kobrand conglomerate of wine and spirits companies. St. Francis now owns more than 415 acres in several appellations, including Sonoma and the Russian River Valley. St. Francis produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Claret, Merlot, Zinfandel and Chardonnay. The estate is especially well known for its old vines Zinfandel.

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.