High elevation, old vine Zin from the El Dorado AVA in the Sierra Foothills. We review the Lava Cap Reserve Zinfandel and give it a perfect 10 Taste Rating.
Zinfandel from a handful of Estate and neighboring vineyards ranging in elevation from 2,400-2,800ft in El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California.
The average age of the vines is 45 years old and the wine is aged in François Frères French oak barrels for 24 months.
Today we’re reviewing another wine from the Lava Cap Winery in El Dorado and this time we’re turning to the specialty of the region, Zinfandel. Spoiler alert: It does not disappoint!
Sample submitted for review. The Lava Cap Reserve Zinfandel has an SRP of $28 but has been seen for as low as $21.
From the winery:
Tasting Notes: Enters with subtle notes of briar and spice which quickly give way to aromas of raspberry liqueur. This vibrant Zinfandel offers layers of blackberry and black cherry fruit. A warm, luscious finish lingers on with toasty oak flavors.
Vineyard Notes: The grapes for our Zinfandel come from a handful of Estate and neighboring vineyards, all in the El Dorado AVA, ranging in elevation from 2,400-2,800ft. The soils are primarily volcanic, on the gentle slopes of the Sierra Nevada’s west slope. Most of the vines are over 45 years old and are a mix of heritage Zinfandel clones.
Winemaker Notes: Lava Cap is regarded as one of the premier Zinfandel producers in the Sierra Foothills. The 2022 Zinfandel reflects Lava Caps’ goal of creating wines that have ample concentrations and depth, but also expectational balance. Rather than the jammy and brambly flavors so often associated with this grape, this wine shows elegance, with vivid red fruits, great acidity, and moderate tannins. All hallmarks of high elevation expressions of this grapes. The wines balance and brightness make it perfect for Tri-Tip, hamburgers, or Italian food.
The grapes are handpicked at moderate sugars and fermented in stainless steel. Aged 24 months in François Frères French oak barrels.
Harvest Date: October, 2022
Bottled: August, 2024
pH: 3.80
Cases Produced: 170015.1% Alcohol
The 2022 Lava Cap Reserve Zinfandel opens with a wonderful aroma of brambly berry notes and licorice plus some lovely herbal and spice notes. It’s a great start.
The wine tastes rich, deep and spicy and is layered with flavors. It features similar flavors to the nose with well-integrated spice throughout. It’s absolutely delicious, especially once it has some time to breathe.
It ends dry, quite long, flavorful and grippy on the delicious finish. It was just as good on day 2.
Looking for more of The Best Zinfandel Under $25? You’ve come to the right spot! Check out our giant list!
Would You Like To Save This?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
We won't send you spam, unsubscribe at any time.
