High on a remote hillside in the Mayacamas Mountains lies the only zinfandel vineyard in the Knight’s Valley appellation. The terroir here, marked by lava-based soil and a southerly exposure, has sired hardy vines and fruit of distinctive character. Even the wine’s color, the darkest, deepest purple, is strikingly different than zins from other AVAs. So, too, are its aromas, with notes of briar smoke, cocoa, and peppercorn that enhance the wine’s cola, young blackberry, and spice flavors. It all comes to a close with a long layered finish.

This double-gold winning vintage embodies the perfect balance of exquisite fruit, harvested at just the right moment, refined tannins, and wood-ageing. Our Speedy Creek zin offers endless culinary possibilities. Try it with Gruyere or young Asiago cheese, or any hearty Italian dish such rabbit con pomodori or pasta Bolognese. Cellar until 2012.