Hartford Old Vine Zinfandel "Highwire Vineyard" 2021
(Russian River Valley, Sonoma) - [JD 96] [WS 94] [WE 93]

Vineyard & Vintage Character:
Over 100 years old, the Highwire Vineyard takes its name from the vineyard's trellising systems: half of the parcel is head-trained and half is trained on a high-wire trellis strung between each vine. This trellising method was devised by vineyard owner, Lloyd Chelli, to permit greater sun exposure and promote even ripening. Both sections of the vineyard are harvested separately and evaluated individually before selecting the best lots to ensure consistency in style of the incredibly unique Highwire Vineyard Zinfandel. The Chelli family cares deeply for the old vines behind their home. Their dedicated approach to farming is reflected in the character of the wine produced from their vineyard. Cool nights in the Russian River Valley help to keep bright acidity while double sorting removes less ripe berries and raisins, giving a fresh fruit focus.

Tasting Notes:
Consistently distinctive cracked white pepper nuances differentiate the Highwire single-vineyard Zinfandel from our other Zinfandel bottlings. Concentrated licorice, blackberry and boysenberry fruit aromas and flavors are another signature of this vineyard each year and complement the dark chocolate and sappy dark fruit nuances that linger in the youthful finish.

Technical Information:
Oak: 100% French oak, 50% new
Time in oak: 9 months
Yeast: Native
Alcohol: 15.6%
TA: 6.6 g/L
pH: 3.44
Cases produced: 325
Unfined and unfiltered 

Ratings & Reviews

96 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"I really love the perfume of the 2021 Zinfandel Highwire Vineyard, which has the scent of walking into the forest after a fresh rainfall. Pouring a saturated ruby-purple, notes of blackberry, candied raspberry, and forest herbs are followed by a medium to full-bodied red with a bit more linear and fresh spine of acidity. It packs in compelling structure, with fine tannins and a brightness to the fruit that is long on the palate, revealing notes of fresh peach, dusty soils, and sweet herbs. This may be my favorite of these Zinfandel offerings from Hartford." - Audrey Frick (July 2023)

94 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Sleek and racy, with briary wild berry, licorice and brown baking spice flavors that build richness and structure toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2032. 325 cases made." - Tim Fish (October 2023)