Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel 2020

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel: A Bold Expression of Mountain-Grown Excellence

Introduction

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel is a bold and robust red wine that showcases the unique qualities of mountain viticulture in Lake County, California. This Zinfandel is crafted from grapes grown at high altitudes, where the rugged terrain and cooler temperatures contribute to the wine’s intense flavors and well-balanced structure. For those who appreciate a full-bodied red with a rich fruit profile and a touch of spice, Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel is an outstanding choice.

Vineyard and Terroir

The grapes for Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel are sourced from the high-altitude vineyards of Lake County, situated between 1,500 and 2,400 feet above sea level. These vineyards benefit from a combination of cool mountain air, abundant sunshine, and well-drained volcanic soils, creating an ideal environment for growing Zinfandel. The high elevation helps to preserve the natural acidity of the grapes while promoting the development of deep, concentrated flavors.

The unique terroir of Lake County imparts a distinct minerality to the wine, adding complexity and depth to its flavor profile. The combination of elevation, climate, and soil ensures that each bottle of Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel delivers a wine that is both powerful and refined.

Winemaking Process

At Shannon Ridge, the winemaking process is focused on capturing the bold character of the Zinfandel grapes while maintaining balance and finesse. The grapes are hand-harvested at peak ripeness to ensure optimal flavor development. After a gentle crushing and fermentation, the wine is aged in a combination of American and French oak barrels, which enhances the wine’s structure and imparts subtle notes of vanilla and spice.

The winemaking team carefully monitors the aging process to achieve the perfect balance between fruit, oak, and tannins. The result is a wine that is rich and full-bodied, with a smooth, velvety texture and a long, satisfying finish.

Tasting Notes

•Appearance: Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel pours a deep, ruby-red color with purple highlights, indicating its rich and concentrated nature.

•Nose: The aromatic profile is intense and inviting, with dominant notes of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and plum. As the wine opens, hints of black pepper, cinnamon, and toasted oak emerge, adding complexity and intrigue.

•Palate: On the palate, this Zinfandel is bold and full-bodied, with layers of dark fruit flavors, including blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry. The wine’s robust tannins are well-integrated, providing structure without overpowering the fruit. Subtle notes of spice, vanilla, and chocolate add depth and richness, leading to a long, lingering finish with a touch of minerality.

•Finish: The finish is smooth and satisfying, with the dark fruit flavors gradually giving way to hints of spice and oak, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and power.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of hearty and flavorful dishes.

•Grilled Meats: This Zinfandel’s bold flavors and robust tannins make it an excellent match for grilled meats, such as steak, lamb chops, and barbecue ribs. The wine’s fruitiness complements the charred flavors of the meat, while its acidity helps to cut through the richness.

•Hearty Stews: Pair this wine with a slow-cooked beef stew, braised short ribs, or a rich chili. The wine’s complexity and depth enhance the savory flavors of the dish, creating a harmonious pairing.

•Pasta Dishes: Enjoy Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel with pasta dishes featuring rich tomato-based sauces, such as spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna. The wine’s acidity and fruitiness balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while its tannins provide structure.

•Cheese: This Zinfandel pairs well with bold, aged cheeses, such as Gouda, Cheddar, or Parmesan. The wine’s fruit and spice notes complement the rich, nutty flavors of the cheese, making it a perfect choice for a cheese platter.

Serving and Storage Tips

To fully appreciate the bold and complex flavors of Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel, it is best served at a temperature of 60-65°F (16-18°C). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes before serving can help to aerate the wine and bring out its full aromatic profile.

While this Zinfandel is enjoyable now, it also has the potential to age gracefully for several years. Proper storage in a cool, dark place, ideally at a consistent temperature, will allow the wine’s flavors to evolve and deepen over time.

Conclusion

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel is a bold and expressive red wine that captures the essence of mountain viticulture in Lake County. With its rich fruit flavors, robust tannins, and subtle spice notes, this Zinfandel offers a powerful and satisfying tasting experience. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a hearty meal, Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel is sure to impress those who appreciate a well-crafted, full-bodied wine.

For wine lovers seeking a Zinfandel that embodies both strength and elegance, Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel is an excellent choice. Its connection to the rugged mountain landscape of Lake County adds a unique dimension to the wine, making it a standout addition to any wine collection.