2013 Sangiovese Alegría Vineyards

2013 Sangiovese Alegría Vineyards

91 points - Wine Enthusiast
91 points - Zinfandel Chronicles
90 points - Purely Domestic Wine Report

Tasting Notes

Intriguing aromas of deep red fruit are accented by subtle baking spices and hints of white pepper. Creamy mocha, hints of orange peel, and mineral essence weave through flavors of rich dark cherry, cranberry, and pomegranate.

Winemaker's Notes

When we purchased Alegría Vineyards in 1990, we were delighted to find some of the oldest Sangiovese vines in Sonoma County (planted in 1950 by Americo Rafanelli) among our Zinfandel vines. We used cuttings from his old Sangiovese vines when we planted our hillside blocks, along with 25 other distinct selections of Sangiovese, and two other Tuscan grapes traditionally blended with Sangiovese: Canaiolo (for color) and Mammolo (for aroma).

2013’s benign weather and our hands-on attention to the vines produced a great vintage―our 20th Sangiovese. The field blend and our cool Russian River Valley climate give the wine an “Italianate," food-friendly balance of tannins and acidity.

A three day cold soak unlocked the grapes’ rich, concentrated flavors and aromas. Native yeast started, and Brunello yeast completed, fermentation of the field blend. For barrel aging, Bill selected a combination of oak to enhance varietal flavors and aromas. 30% new Hungarian barrels added notes of cinnamon, toasted walnuts, cola, and mocha.

Click here to download a printable Fact Sheet PDF

AppellationRussian River Valley
Sonoma County
Varietal98% Sangiovese
1% Canaiolo,
1% Mammolo Toscano
Alcohol14.10%
Bottle750ml
Cases452
ph Level3.67
TA6.15g/L