 |
| ~ The Haywood Estate ~ |
Many years ago, a good friend of mine introduced me to a wonderful pairing that I still enjoy today: Cambozola cheese, and Haywood’s “Los Chamizal – Rocky Terrace” Zinfandel. Cambozola is pretty easy to find now – in fact, there’s a “black label” triple cream reserve that is spectacular and readily available. But the Haywood is a bit more challenging to come across.
From Haywood’s “Los Chamizal” vineyard in Sonoma Valley, the “Rocky Terrace” Zinfandel is sourced from a small subplot within that vineyard that is known to produce intensely flavored and aromatic grapes that provide the fruit for this wine.
The 2006 Haywood “Los Chamizal – Rocky Terrace” Zinfandel, is everything I love from the varietal. In the glass, the wine is dark purplish red with violet reflections. The nose of the wine is captivating and it was a good 5 minutes before I even ventured a taste. Aromas include flowers, blackberry, spices, cinnamon, wild berries, pine and brush – very complex. In the mouth the wine has loads of bright, full bodied, Zinberry fruit, with spice and mineral complexity. The acids provide ample structure and the tannins are fully resolved. All that’s left is silky, Zinfandel fruit. Paired great with baked chicken with herbs and caramelized onions. Delicious Zinfandel and just as I remembered. 93 points, about $32. But absolutely worth it.
 |
| 2006 Haywood Estate – Rocky Terrace Zinfandel |
Once again, you've chosen a winner! My company distributes these wines, & they are all wonderful. The Rocky Terrace & Morning Sun are my favorites, but I also love the Los Chamizal.
Claire,
Thanks – I've never had the Morning Sun – that's new on the scene since this wine popped up on my radar. I'll have to check that one out on your recommendation.
John