1981 Fetzer Ricetti Zinfandel

Fetzer is a large estate in Mendocino County. It was founded in 1968 when Barney and Kathleen Fetzer and their sons bought a ranch and converted a barn into a winery. By the 1980s the family had acquired additional land and was producing large quantities of numerous wines, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay to Syrah and White Zinfandel. In 1992 Fetzer was purchased Brown-Forman Corp. and in 2011 Fetzer was purchased by Vina Concha Y Toro. Over the decades Fetzer has been a leader in green practices and organic wine production. Today the estate makes a large portfolio of wines and retains its commitment to environmental sustainability.

Mendocino AVA was established in 1984 and amended in 1989. It includes numerous sub-appellations. Mendocino AVA is entirely within Mendocino County, and the AVA is known for its Mediterranean climate. Vintners successfully grow Carignan, Charbono, Grenache, Zinfandel, Petit Sirah and Syrah. In cooler parts of the region Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are also grown. Mendocino County is home to nearly 600 vineyards, and many have been certified organic for decades, thanks to the region’s famous “green and sustainable” approach to agriculture and nearly everything else. Mendocino was named for 16th century explorers, a pair of brothers whose last name was Mendoza. Winemaking, however, didn’t start until the 19th century when some would-be gold miners decided it was more profitable to make wine than to pan for gold. Italian immigrants in the late 19th century continued to establish winemaking ventures.

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.