2001 Chase Zinfandel, Hayne Vineyard, Napa

Sixty acres of old-vine Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon have been handed down through the Chase family since before the turn of the century. Originally a grubstake for an early independant woman pioneer, who settled her family between St. Helena and Rutherford, the Hayne vineyard is now reknown amongst die hard fans of Zinfandel for producing the most exclusive wines produced by the cult label Turley Cellars.

Andrew and Pam Simpson, the current proprietors and descendants of the original Chase Family, have historically sold their grapes to other producers, but like many family owned vineyards, have started to make their own wine under the label of Chase Family Cellars. 1997 was their first vintage, and since then, wines under their label have been highly sought after, especially since its price point is sometimes 1/3 of the wines from other labels using the same grapes.

Tasting Notes:
Dark, dark garnet in the glass, this wine has a heady aroma of dark fruit which seems to be a mix of blackberries and blueberries with rich pungent tobacco overtones. In the mouth the wine is luscious and silky with flavors of blueberries, blackberries, and coffee. The finish prolonsg the coffee overtones, and ends with a slight hot alcohol note, which marred an otherwise excellent wine.

Food Pairing:
I always like it when winemakers suggest pairings. The Simpsons are recommending this wine be paired with a Point Reyes Blue Cheese Salad with roasted pears.

Overall Score: 8/8.5

How Much?: $36

I get mine through Porthos