2017 Carlisle Pagani Ranch Zinfandel Sonoma Valley 1x750ml

Vinous 92+

The 2017 Zinfandel Pagani Ranch is sensual, understated and polished. Bright red-toned and floral notes are nicely pushed forward. In 2017, all of the fruit came from two 122 year-old blocks on the western portion of the site. Sadly, the Alicante was still hanging when fires hit on October 9. That fruit was never picked, so in 2017, the Pagani is almost entirely Zinfandel. Feminine and gracious, with bright floral overtones, the 2017 will drink well right out of the gate. I loved it. [Antonio Galloni, 23/01/2019]

Robert Parker 90

The 2017 Zinfandel Pagani Ranch comes from vines planted in the mid-1890s. It aged in 21% new French oak. It’s medium ruby-purple and scented of brown sugar crumble, peach cobbler, red cherry, licorice and black berries with savory hints of herbs, olives, prosciutto and potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied and savory with juicy acidity and a soft frame, finishing on an herbal note. 314 cases produced. This bottling includes 2% mixed black varieties including Petite Sirah and Carignane, but the Alicante Bouschet wasn’t used this year. “It had smoke damage and we didn’t take it,” says Jake Bilbro. “So, this is a very unusual expression, very pretty—it’s usually big and bold.” [08/11/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2028