Jeff Cohn Cellars Cassata Zinfandel 2013
-
Parker
Robert -
Guide
Connoisseurs'
Product Details
Your Rating
Somm Note
Winemaker Notes
Blend: 75% Zinfandel, 25% Petite Sirah
Professional Ratings
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
I had the pleasure of tasting two Zinfandels from Cohn. The 2013 Zinfandel Cassata Vineyard carries a Sonoma appellation and a bold 15.6% natural alcohol. A rich, black raspberry-scented nose, a full-bodied mouthfeel and delicious fruit-forward style is not going to make old bones, but for drinking over the next 5-6 years, this is a sexy Zinfandel.
-
Connoisseurs' Guide
offerings, and, if it is bound to impress the weak of heart as being on the verge of losing control, there is no denying its generosity, its depth and its sheer fruity muscle. It is a full-throttle powerhouse that is sure to overwhelm all but the most flavorful foods, and it joins the ranks of big-impact Zins ideally suited for accompanying meal-ending cheeses.
Other Vintages
2014-
Parker
Robert -
Guide
Connoisseurs'
-
Parker
Robert
All JC Cellars wines are fermented in open top fermenting vessels that range in size from a half ton to eight tons, where each bin is hand punched down five times per day. This time-consuming procedure allows maximum exposure of skins to juice, intensifying the flavor of the fruit while handling it as gently as possible.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!