This wine is made from grapes from Dry Creek Valley, Mendocino, San Joaquin, Alameda, Amador, and Yolo, which are said to be the holy land of Zinfandel and where many old vines remain. Aged for 12 months in French barrels (30% new barrels). Aromas of juicy blackberries and dark plums with fresh blueberries, mocha, and dark chocolate. Velvety, luxurious, and refined tannins combine with the sweetness of ripe berries and a spicy flavor.
A wine that makes full use of the flavors of red fruits and spices that are characteristic of Zinfandel.
This wine is made from carefully selected vineyards in Dry Creek Valley, world-famous for producing high-quality Zinfandel, as well as high-quality grapes from all over California.
Decoy is led by Duckhorn Portfolio COO Zach Lamson and is in the process of converting AVAs across Sonoma County, California, over a six-year period.
After thoroughly researching the characteristics and advantages of each top-quality producing region, we came to the conclusion that in order to produce better grapes, it would be better to broaden our horizons to include top vineyards throughout California rather than sticking to Sonoma.
We look forward to further expansion of the decoy program in the future.
Vintage Information
Due to the warm winter, precipitation was less than 50% of normal, so we took early steps to prepare for the drought, such as encouraging new shoots, careful management of cover crops, targeted irrigation, and pruning with consideration for the stress on the grapes.
Buds sprout from mid-March to early April and flower in mid-May.
A favourable growing season promoted excellent maturity.
Harvesting began in mid-August with Sauvignon Blanc, quickly followed by Chardonnay and Merlot, with the remaining Bordeaux varieties being completely harvested by October 15th.
The drought resulted in low yields, resulting in small berries and excellent grapes with concentrated flavour.
The white wine has ideal acidity and fresh tropical flavors, while the red wine is incredibly concentrated, with great depth, complexity and juiciness.
Tasting Comments
Aromas of blueberry, black pepper, cherry and licorice are the focus, while flavors of black fruit such as blackberry and plum are supported by silky smooth tannins and fresh acidity.
This is a fresh and attractive Zinfandel with subtle hints of oak-derived vanilla and spices such as nutmeg that can be felt all the way through to the aftertaste.
Field Information
From prime vineyards in Sonoma, San Joaquin, Mendocino, Alameda, Amador and Yolo Counties.
Vintage: 2021
Capacity: 750ml
Type: Red wine
Taste: Full-bodied
Main variety: Zinfandel 90%
Blend Variety: Petite Sirah 10%
Country of Origin: America
Region Name: California
Ava: California
Winemaker: Dana Epperson
Aging: 12 months in French barrels (30% new barrels)
Cap: Cork
Alcohol content: 14.1%
JAN: 669576019238