2005 Zinfandel "The Monster"
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Grape Variety: 93% Zinfandel, 7% Petite Syrah

Appellation: Paso Robles

Analysis: Alcohol: 15.2% by volume pH: 3.58 TA: .80g/100ml RS: .25%

Harvest Dates: 9/28/05– 10/21/05 (5 ranches)

Barrel Ageing: 14 months in 34% neutral oak uprights, 66% in 1-3 year old Fr & Am oak barrels

Cases Produced: 4007

Tasting Notes
The 2005 vintage of our most popular varietal is perhaps the finest to date. With the raspberry jam, licorice and pepper aromas that The Monster is famous for, this year’s offering has more depth and complexity than ever. Robust berry and chocolate flavors, and a creamy, lingering finish are in perfect balance. This wine pairs well with a wide range of cuisine, from tuna to T-bone, as long as the entrée has attitude! Enjoy now, or cellar age until 2015. Vintage 2005 The 2005 vintage was one of the finest in a decade. Similar to the El Nino weather patterns of 1997, ample spring rains and a cooler than normal summer permitted full ripening and long hang-time. Although the crop level averaged 15% above normal, mainly due to a healthy set, cluster and berry sizes were low, resulting in excellent concentration of flavors. The mild, dry fall allowed for physiological ripeness without excessive sugar, thus alcohols are moderate, and the resulting wines are balanced and accessible. Winemaking We hand-harvested bunches from our best Zinfandel ranches at the peak of ripeness, to achieve intense jam and spice without raisiny or pruny characteristics, and used moderate fermentation temperatures and gentle cap irrigation to extract color, body and flavor, but not harsh or bitter tannin. Each lot was aged separately in oak barrels or upright casks until the final blend was put together right before bottling.