Wine Details
Vintage: 2021
Alcohol: 14.8%
pH: 3.65
TA: 6.2 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.8 g/L (Dry)
Production: 485 cases
Bottle Price: $48
2021 Felix's Old Vine Zinfandel
Heritage Vines, Modern Excellence
Winemaking
Harvest Date: October 12, 2021
Barrel Aging: 16 months
Oak: 40% new French oak, 60% neutral
Toast Level: Medium+
Fermentation: Native yeast, concrete tanks
Bottling Date: February 18, 2023
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Deep ruby with violet edges. Medium+ viscosity showing glycerin legs that slowly cascade down the glass.
Nose
Explosive aromatics of wild blackberry, sun-ripened raspberry, and black cherry compote. Secondary notes of dried herbs, white pepper, and sweet baking spices with hints of tobacco and leather.
Palate
Full-bodied with velvety tannins. Rich dark fruit core balanced by bright acidity. Flavors of blackberry jam, plum, dark chocolate, and espresso with savory undertones of cured meat and Mediterranean herbs.
Finish
Long and persistent. Lingering notes of black pepper, cocoa, and ripe fruit. The old vine concentration shows through with remarkable depth and complexity.
Food Pairing
This bold Zinfandel pairs beautifully with:
Grilled Meats
BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, grilled lamb chops, or bacon-wrapped filet mignon
Italian Classics
Lasagna, osso buco, wild boar ragu, or aged Parmigiano-Reggiano
Bold Flavors
Spicy sausage pizza, blackened salmon, or mushroom risotto with truffle oil
Vintage Notes
The 2021 growing season in Dry Creek Valley was marked by a warm spring and moderate summer temperatures, allowing for even ripening. A brief heat spike in early October concentrated flavors before harvest. These old vines, planted in 1947, produced intensely flavored, small-clustered fruit with exceptional concentration and balance.
Drinking Window
Peak: 2024-2028
Can be enjoyed now with decanting, or cellared for continued development through 2030.
Purchase This Wine
Available for purchase directly from Hillside Estate Winery
Visit Winery Website →