JFW Edmeades Mendocino Zinfandel, California, USA, 2017

Grape Varieties:
79% Zinfandel, 13% Petite Sirah, 8% Syrah

Edmeades is pure Mendocino, famous for its limited bottlings from the Mendocino Ridge and the Redwood and Ukiah valleys of Northern California. It is the authentic taste of one of California’s final viticultural frontiers — the Anderson Valley. It all started in 1963 when Dr. Donald Edmeades, a cardiologist from Pasadena, planted 24 acres of vines, becoming the first modern-day grape grower in this cool, coastal region. He founded his winery and launched the Edmeades brand in 1972. The Jackson family purchased the winery and its vineyards in 1988. Their approach is traditional and natural; methods are decidedly low tech. They believe in native yeast fermentations in small, open-top bins, hand punch downs, minimal manipulation and no fining or filtration at bottling. The simplicity of the methods allows the soils and climates of each site to be clearly heard in their wines and enjoy full expression in every vintage.

Food Match:
This wine is great with full flavoured casseroles and red meat dishes.

Oak:
20 months in 59% French oak, 41% American oak, 20% new