2009 Scherrer Zinfandel Old and Mature Vines

Ruby-red. Exotic, high-pitched aromas of candied red fruits, incense and pungent herbs. Lithe and precise, offering sappy raspberry and cherry flavors lifted by juicy acidity. Reminds me of a pinot in its elegance and focus. Finishes bright and long, with resonating spiciness and lingering florality.

The 2009 Zinfandel Old & Mature Vines Scherrer Vineyard is delicate and floral. Dried cherries, crushed flowers, sweet herbs, licorice and tobacco all take shape in this feminine, pretty wine. The style is all about grace and understatement, but I wish there was a little more depth. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2017. As I enter the spacious cellar, I am greeted by faint, mellow tones that are clearly those of a Martin D-28. Fred Scherrer coaxes those same soulful notes from his wines. Scherrer offers his wines in two distinct offerings – younger wines for the retail mailing list and older wines for the trade – so keeping up with new releases across both channels of distribution is a bit of a challenge, but hopefully I have managed to capture the best of what is in the cellar today. Relative to most of his peers, Scherrer prefers longer elevage, while rackings are kept to a bare minimum. At times, I feel some of these wines might benefit from being bottled earlier, which might also preserve more freshness. Tel. (707) 824-1933