Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel 2019

The Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel 2019, crafted by the renowned Peter Franus of the Peter Franus Wine Company, is a testament to the unique terroir of the Brandlin Vineyard on Mount Veeder. This wine, a blend of 90% Zinfandel with 10% Charbono, Mourvadre, and Carignane, mirrors the vineyard’s tradition of field blending, which dates back to the early 1920s.

Harvested in late September and mid-October of 2019, this vintage benefitted from the ample winter rainfall of the season, resulting in abundant and healthy vines. The moderate temperatures throughout the growing season allowed for a leisurely harvest, ensuring that the grapes were picked at the peak of ripeness. This care is reflected in the wine’s balanced and refreshing character.

The fermentation process, lasting 8 days with a peak temperature of 84ºF, and a 14-day maceration period before pressing, were meticulously overseen by Franus. The wine was then aged for 18 months in French Oak barrels, with 30% new oak from Burgundian Coopers, further adding to its complexity and refinement.

Displaying a medium ruby color, the Peter Franus Zinfandel greets the nose with vibrant and enticing aromas of raspberry, white pepper, allspice, and a hint of vanilla, evoking the finesse of a fine Pinot Noir. Upon tasting, an initial juicy black cherry sensation is beautifully balanced by supporting tannins that gracefully fade into the background, showcasing the zesty and forward fruit character typical of Zinfandel.

The palate is a delightful journey through a spectrum of flavors, ranging from gentle dark fruits to bright berries, intertwined with notes of crushed stone, lavender, white pepper, clove, ginger, anise, bay, and a subtle earthiness. This array of flavors, while complex, is harmoniously balanced, resulting in a wine that is both invigorating and elegantly structured.

Critical acclaim for the Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel 2019 of Franus winery has been noteworthy. Awarded 92 Points by Wine Spectator, it is described as potent and deeply structured, with dark plum and cherry flavors interlaced with roasted anise and pepper, culminating in refined tannins. Advised to be enjoyed now through 2029, it’s a testament to its aging potential.

Vinous has also recognized the exceptional quality of this wine, awarding it 93 Points. They highlight its intense Mt. Veeder character, abundant in crushed red berry fruit, hard candy, chalk, mint, white pepper, crushed rocks, and dried herbs. Described as a mid-weight, intensely mineral Zinfandel, it is celebrated for hitting numerous high notes and presenting a nuanced and mountain-character-rich profile.

In summary, the Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel 2019 from the Peter Franus Wine Company is a distinguished representation of the Mount Veeder terroir. It offers a complex yet balanced tasting experience, full of depth and nuance, and is a shining example of what Zinfandel, particularly from this esteemed region, can achieve.