Husch Vineyards Old Vine Zinfandel
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Husch’s Old Vines Zinfandel is grown at Garzini Ranch in the warm Ukiah Valley.
- Italian immigrants introduced Zinfandel in Mendocino County over 100 years ago. The remnants of their original plantings are highly valued today.
- The gnarled, head-pruned Zinfandel vines at Garzini were planted in the 1940s and 1950s (80+ year old fines). They continue to produce low yields of grapes with concentrated flavors.
- Drink now or cellar up to 7 years.
Varietal Composition: 100% Zinfandel
Elaboration: The grapes were hand-harvested and fermented using a unique blend of yeasts. Each section of the vineyard contributed its distinct character during nine months of barrel aging. After evaluating various blending options, the winemaking team crafted a well-balanced final wine that pays homage to the storied old vines of the Garzini Ranch.orange blossoms, and wet stone on the nose lead into subtle watermelon rind and more of that delightful stone fruit on the palate. Steely acid and a zesty mouthfeel carry through to a smooth finish.
PRESS
2020 – 90 Wine Enthusiast
2021 – 90 Wine Spectator
2022 – 93 Wine Enthusiast
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Founded in 1971, Husch is the oldest winery in the picturesque Anderson Valley. The vineyards are comprised of some of the earliest varietal plantings on the valley floor. In 1967 Tony and Gretchen Husch bought the 60-acre Nunn ranch between Philo and Navarro on Highway 128. The land was well known for growing apples and grains. They soon planted eight acres of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gewurztraminer grapes on the cool slopes of the property. The plantings sweep down towards the pristine Navarro River. The first official crush was in the fall of 1971.
In 1979, Hugo Oswald Jr. bought the 6,000 case Husch Winery from the Husch family. The Oswald family had been growing pears in the Santa Clara Valley, but when the area was expanding they sold the land and headed for the southern tip of Mendocino County. Today Husch Vineyards remains owned and operated by the 3rd Generation of the Oswald family: Zac Robinson and Amanda Robinson Holstine. Winemaking is under the direction of Brad Holstine (Amanda’s husband). Al White, in charge of all viticulture operations, has been with Husch since 1974. Through the years Husch has modernized and expanded, but it has never lost its initial rustic charm or reputation for great wines.