By Artezin
Collins Vineyard Zinfandel

Background
The vision behind Artezin is to honor the art of making Zinfandel from old vine plantings and family-owned farms throughout Mendocino and Sonoma Counties. Many varieties, including Zinfandel, were planted throughout Mendocino and Sonoma Counties as home winemaking grapes. The local farmers, many of them Italian immigrants, wanted wines that were big, dark, and robust. During Prohibition, Zinfandel continued to thrive as the home winemaker's grape. Zinfandel was planted in these areas, known to many as "the home of Zinfandel," by immigrants whose families still tend those vineyards today, using the same sustainable farming methods their parents and grandparents used. Zinfandel is full, spicy, and packed with juicy berry notes.

Winemaker
A native Californian, Randle Johnson attended the University of California, Davis, intending to become an M.D., but destiny changed his plans. Randle discovered a passion for winemaking and graduated with an M.S. in Viticulture. He honed his art and skill at The Hess Collection, producing award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon for 20 years and earning his unofficial title, "The Wine Doctor." A true champion of heirloom varietals, those that come from a vine and clonal material handed down for generations or hand-selected by growers for a special trait, he began producing Zinfandel. He practiced his craft until it truly became an art. With the creation of Artezin, Randle honors the heritage of these grapes, the growers who tend to them, and their place in the history of California winemaking.

Tasting Notes
Our Zinfandel is a pure varietal expression of red and black fruit, with a hint of black pepper and a concentrated finish. We look to single vineyards in the Russian River that showcase the richness and distinction of those places.
[Information provided by Artezin]
[Information is not vintage specific]