The Crane Disciples Red 2014 Napa Valley

Dave Phinney, who brought to us his great wines under Orin Swift – think Papillon, Mercury Head and Prisoner – is now a co-founder of G.B. Crane Vineyards, a heritage vineyard located in St. Helena’s west bench. This new bottling, Disciples, is deliciously juicy and concentrated. It is a true testament to Dave and winemaker Kevin Fox’s ability to making powerful Reds. This 2014 comes from Morisoli vineyard in Rutherford and Milat vineyard in St. Helena and is comprised of 93% Zinfandel and 7% Petite Sirah. They consider these vineyards to be like disciples of the ancient vines of Crane, and indeed some barrels from their G.B. Crane vineyard were included in the blend. 

“Dark crimson in color, the strong, classic Zinfandel aromas of briar fruit and wild strawberries jump out of the glass and are complemented by hints of wet forest floor and high mountain forest. The entry gives way to a rich and textured mid-palate of Mexican chocolate, brambly raspberry and a lengthy, caramelized crème Anglaise finish. This wine is a unique expression of old vine Zinfandel grown in the gravel-rich alluvial soils at the base of the Mayacamas mountain range" - G.B. Crane