2010 Scholium Project Mead Ranch The Arrows of Apollo Zinfandel

The Scholium Project was founded in Napa Valley by Abe Schoener, a former college professor with a doctorate in pre-Socratic philosophy. Schoener worked at Stag’s Leap and Luna Vineyards in the late 1990s and early 2000s before making his own wine from sourced grapes beginning in the early 2000s. Along with several partners, Schoener continues to expand his portfolio of offerings of reds, whites and blends. The wines are made in very small quantities and are often given names with references to ancient history.

Atlas Peak AVA is perched above the Stags Leap AVA to the northeast of the city of Napa. Elevation ranges from 760 to 2,600 feet, and temperatures are up to 15 degrees cooler in the Atlas Peak vineyards compared with vineyards in the valley. There are 1,500 vineyard acres planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The appellation was named for Atlas Peak, which, at 2,633 feet above sea level, is the highest peak in the area.

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.