2005 Lake County Zinfandel
Growing Region
Lake County lies just northeast of Napa County, and within its boundaries stands Clear Mountain Vineyard. This vineyard thrives at an elevation of 2,400 feet; a full thousand feet higher than its neighbors do, and well above summer fog and mist. It is fairly warm, but cools off significantly at night, encouraging even ripening and vibrant color development. The red volcanic soils contain traces of obsidian rock, offering yet another unique twist to this already distinctly different appellation.
Winemaking
The fruit came in highly concentrated and fully ripe at over 25 degrees Brix. After a slow, cool fermentation on the skins for seven days, Winemaker Ron Schrieve decided to make every attempt to preserve the up-front fruit characters exuding from the tanks. Hence, this wine spent a short six months in small oak barrels; almost half made from new American oak, the balance older French.
Winemaker's Notes
"I enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with Greg on this zinfandel. As does he, I believe Lake County provides excellent growing ground for this varietal. Its blend of elevation, climate and soils can be found in no other region.
The finished wine is rich and highly extracted, but nicely balanced. It tastes of intense blackberry liqueur and ripe raspberry with a subtle jammy component. It is framed by hints of briar and peppery spice, and brings a long, elegant finish. It lacks the heavy prune and raisin characters of many overripe zins."
- Ron Schrieve, Winemaker
Suggested Food Pairings
Believe it or not, this is a great brunch wine; serve it with spinach, mushroom and white cheddar omelets, savory cranberry scones, and chunks of fresh melon wrapped in prosciutto.
Technical Details
Appellation: Lake County, California
Alcohol: 15.0%
pH: 3.75
Total Acidity: 0.67 g/100ml
Harvest Date: September to October 2005
Bottle Date: May 2007
Ratings & Reviews
The Forum (April 24, 2008)
"A full-bodied Zin... Offers an aroma prominently featuring coffee, chocolate, plums, blackberry, licorice and pepper. Flavors mirror the aroma with the addition of a summer berry element. The finish is exceptionally long, reflecting cherry and berry flavors. This Zinfandel...definitely deserves your attention." - Sheila Bodenstein
Colorado Wine News (July-September 2008)
"Opens with sweet cherry jam, buttermilk, and smoky oak... The medium-broad, medium-long finish adds persistent flavors of spice on the front one-third and crushed espresso bean overall." - Harold Baer
Sacramento Bee (May 21, 2008)
"Good deals to pair with your backyard meals. With light seasonings and mild sauce, or no sauce at all, pick a more restrained yet still vivacious Zinfandel such as Greg Norman California Zinfandel. " - Mike Dunne
Sacramento Bee (April 9, 2008)
"The best of the year - so far. It's agile and versatile, with bright and spicy raspberry fruit, a loose build, and a youthful swing. The winery suggests it be poured with a brunch that includes a spinach, mushroom and white-cheddar omelet and savory cranberry scones, but best make that after 18 holes or you're apt to miss your tee time by dawdling over another glass. " - Mike Dunne
The Gazette (Colorado Springs, CO) (August 13, 2008)
"Zinfandel's assertive fruit and brash flavors hold up well to the stronger flavors that come off the grill. Recommended: 2005 Greg Norman Lake County Zinfandel." - Rich Mauro
City and Shore (Ft. Lauderdale, FL (Oct. 2008)
"Having established an international reputation for his Australian wines, (Greg) Norman has expanded his wine interests with a California venture. His Greg Norman California Estates Zinfandel is a particular favorite... This brambly red is the perfect choice to complement grilled meats, including steaks, baby back ribs and burgers." - Bob Hosmon
