Wine Details
Vintage: 2023
Alcohol: 14.5%
pH: 3.58
TA: 6.5 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.6 g/L (Dry)
Production: 465 cases
Bottle Price: $52
2023 Felix's Old Vine Zinfandel
Heritage Vines, Modern Excellence
Winemaking
Harvest Date: October 18, 2023
Barrel Aging: 16 months
Oak: 35% new French oak, 65% neutral
Toast Level: Medium
Fermentation: Native yeast, concrete tanks
Bottling Date: February 12, 2025
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Brilliant ruby with purple hues. Medium+ body with elegant legs suggesting balanced alcohol and glycerin.
Nose
Vibrant aromatics of fresh raspberry, wild strawberry, and red cherry. Floral notes of violet and rose petal lift the fruit, while subtle hints of white pepper, dried sage, and sweet oak add complexity.
Palate
Elegantly structured with silky tannins and bright acidity. Red fruit dominates with layers of cranberry, cherry, and pomegranate. Mid-palate shows subtle baking spices, vanilla, and a mineral edge. The cooler vintage produces exceptional freshness and balance.
Finish
Medium to long with persistent red fruit and spice. Clean, refreshing finish with notes of dried herbs and a touch of black tea. This vintage showcases the elegance and finesse of old vine Zinfandel.
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 2023 vintage was characterized by cooler temperatures and well-timed rainfall during the growing season. An extended hang time allowed the old vines to develop complex flavors while maintaining vibrant acidity. The later harvest captured ideal phenolic ripeness with lower sugar accumulation, resulting in a more elegant, food-friendly expression of Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel.
Drinking Window
Peak: 2026-2033
Approachable in youth but will reward cellaring through 2035.
Purchase This Wine
Available for purchase directly from Hillside Estate Winery
Visit Winery Website →