Wine of the Week: Seghesio Zinfandel

The Seghesio family can trace their winemaking roots back to the vineyards of 1800s Italy. That is was when Edoardo Seghesio decided to pursue a new life in Sonoma County, which at the time was the home of a flourishing Italian community. Like other Italian immigrants at the time, Edoardo recognized the potential that this area had for creating terrific wines that reminded them of home. In the late 1890s, he purchased the land that would spawn Seghesio’s signature wine, Zinfandel.

A lot of time has passed since the days of Edoardo, but the family name is still realizing his dreams of creating amazing wines. Since 1999 their Sonoma County Zinfandel has scored 88 or higher (per Wine Spectator's ratings) and their other wines continuously represent their drive for excellence. In 2007 their Sonoma County Zinfandel became possibly one of the best value wines that I have come across (it was rated 93 point and only cost $22). That is until I tried their 2008 vintage!

2008, Seghesio, Zinfandel, Sonoma, California - $23

This wine was completely on par with the quality exuded in the 2007 vintage, but was different in a few key ways. The smokiness is less perceptible and the subtleties of the 2008 make it a little more interesting.

The wine hits your senses right out of the bottle when you notice the super deep plum color of this wine. From there, your sense of smell is hit with the distinct aromas of dark cherry and blackberry capped off with just a hint of spice. It is in the mouth where things really come together. The cherry melds into a beautifully subtle jaminess that is lined with very mellow oak. Everything here is in balance, which is what makes this wine great. One would never guess that this wine is over 15% alcohol, due to the fact that there is no perceptible heat. This is a truly harmonious Zinfandel.

The 2007 has not yet been rated by Wine Spectator, but I am giving it a 92 point rating that could possibly become a 94 with a year or two of cellaring. This will pair perfectly with anything from pizza to filet mignon. Please make a point of trying this wine!

This wine is available at the NH Liquor store off of Exit 6 (behind the Nashua Mall).

Wine of the Week: Seghesio Zinfandel