California’s great old vine Zinfandel vineyards

[Sean Devaney]

Mike I see you have added McDowell Valley Vineyard to the list but the date should be 1948 as the 1919 vineyard was replanted in 1984. See post on 4/29.

Hi Rick, I posted about the McDowell Gibson Block at the top of this page. I used the 1948 date of planting that I found on McDowell's website. It is interesting that Matt Kramer lists the 1919 date for his 2004 edition as per McDowell's website that block was replanted in 1984 after succumbing to phylloxera.

"The 1919 vineyard eventually succumbed to phylloxera and old age, and before we pulled the vineyard in 1984, we propagated a new block using wood sourced from the old vines. We made our “McDowell” Syrah clonal selection from this vineyard. This was our second generation of Syrah vines, which were propagated on St. George rootstock."

Makes me wonder about if this was just an oversight or if some of the other info may be questionable?

[Bob Hunnicutt]

Don't know the name of this vyd across from Kunde's Wildwood Ranch in Sonoma Valley. Some nasty lookin' things. lol

[M. Dildine]

Mike I see you have added McDowell Valley Vineyard to the list but the date should be 1948 as the 1919 vineyard was replanted in 1984. See post on 4/29.

Hi Rick, I posted about the McDowell Gibson Block at the top of this page. I used the 1948 date of planting that I found on McDowell's website. It is interesting that Matt Kramer lists the 1919 date for his 2004 edition as per McDowell's website that block was replanted in 1984 after succumbing to phylloxera.

"The 1919 vineyard eventually succumbed to phylloxera and old age, and before we pulled the vineyard in 1984, we propagated a new block using wood sourced from the old vines. We made our “McDowell” Syrah clonal selection from this vineyard. This was our second generation of Syrah vines, which were propagated on St. George rootstock."

Makes me wonder about if this was just an oversight or if some of the other info may be questionable?

Sean, thanks. At this point we're going in circles with some of these vineyards. The plan is to follow up individually with the wineries and vineyard owners of each vineyard. That process will hopefully start this month.

[Glenn L e v i n e]

06 Biale Old Crane has hit the bottom of the decanter...

[M. Dildine]

06 Biale Old Crane has hit the bottom of the decanter...

Nice Glenn ... do tell!

[Glenn L e v i n e]

Really an interesting wine Mike. As you know 06 was crazy hot and this bottle seemed very smooth and soft after an hour's decant. I might have guessed Merlot but with limited new oak treatment. After another hour the spices came to the forefront and you could get a whiff of medicinal nose and you knew this was classy Zin.

[Jon Bjork]

Great list!

By the way, the Royal-Tee Vineyard in Lodi was planted by Joseph Spenker in 1889, not 1899.

Thanks!

[M. Dildine]

Jon - thank you! We will be following up with all of the wineries and ranchers associated with historic vineyards very soon with the specific criteria we'll be using to date vineyards.

[M. Dildine]

Database update, 5/13:

101 Vineyard Alexander 1930s Turley
Aldo's Napa 1937 Biale
Alegria Vineyards RRV 1890 Ridge, Stryker, Acorn
Alexander Valley Road Alexander 1923 Turley
Amy's RRV 1910 Ledson
Angeli Ranch Alexander Porter Creek, Marietta
Aparicio Amador 1934 Rosenblum
Bacchi Ranch RRV 1909
Bacigalupi RRV 1950 Arista, Chronicle, John Tyler, Williams Seylem
Baldinelli (Dickson) Amador 1920s Terre Rouge
Barricia SV 1888? 1990s? Ravenswood, Kenwood
Beatty Ranch Napa 1920s Vie
Bechtold-Cinsault Lodi 1883 Turley
Bedrock SV 1888 Bedrock, Ravenswood, Carlisle
Belloni RRV 1920 Ravenswood
Benito Dusi Paso 1923 Ridge, Dover Canyon
Berry Mendocino 1940 Navarro
Biagi RRV 1940s
Big Break Contra Costa 1910 Cline
Big River Alexander 1893 Dashe, Ravenswood, Bella
Bingham Ranch Napa 1890s
Boeger El Dorado 1880s Boeger
Brandlin Ranch Napa 1926 Rosenblum, Franus
Bridgehead, Contra Costa, 1900, Cline Contra Costa 1900 Cline
Burnett DCV 1920s Alderbrook
Butler/Slazinski Sonoma 1920s DeLoach
Carlisle (Pelletti) RRV 1927 Carlisle, Novy, DeLoach
Casa Santinamaria/Maggies Reserve SV 1890s Rosenblum, Saxon Brown
Catfish Lake 1901 Steele
Chauvet SV 1936 Ravenswood, Coturri, Roudon-Smith
Chelli RRV 1890s Hartford
Ciapusci Mendocino 1902
Carla's Contra Costa 1902 Carla's Vineyard, Rosenblum
Coffaro DCV 1890's Coffarro, Wine Guerrilla
Collins Napa 1923 Biale
Coturri SV 1935 Coturri
Crow Ridge RRV 1920 V. Sattui
Cullinane SV 1930s Ledson, Rosenblum
D&D Ranch Alexander 1930s Ridge
Dal Porto Amador 1920s
Dante Dusi Ranch Paso 1945 Turley
Deaver Amador 1930s Deaver, Medusa
DeRose Cienega 1899 DeRose
Dickerson Napa 1930 Ravenswood, Dickerson
Dina's (Chelli) RRV 1910 Hartford
Dogtown Lodi 1944 Turley
Dolinsek Ranch (Frati Ranch) RRV 1910 Bedrock, Mara
Duarte Contra Costa 1899 Turley, Rosenblum
DuPratt Mendocino 1920s Steele
Emmons/Riebli SV 1920s DeLoach
Eschen-Rinaldi Amador 1910s Terre Rouge, Renwood
Esola Amador 1910 Amador Foothill, Ridge
Evangehlo Contra Costa 1910 Jade Mt.
Falleri Napa 1924 Biale
Fanucchi-Wood RRV 1906 Hartford, Fannucchi
Fava Ranch RRV 1922 Marcucci Farms
Felice Connolly Napa 1920s Talty
Fieldstone Alexander 1894 Fieldstone
Forchini RRV/DCV 1910 Forchini, Williams Selyem, Wine Guerrilla
Fredericks (Weiss) SV 1937 Turley
Frediani Napa 1920 T Vine Cellars
Fredson Ranch Alexander 1900s Ridge
Gaddis RRV 1903 Chronicle
Galleano Cucamonga 1925 Galleano
Gamba RRV 1900 Gamba
Gambogi RRV 1909 Chronicle, Hook and Ladder
Geyserville Alexander 1880 Ridge
Gibson Block Mendocino 1919 McDowell Valley Vineyards
Ghiradelli Calaveras 1900 Milliaire
Gold Mine Ranch DCV 1914 Carlisle
Grande Napa 1920 Biale
Grandpere Amador 1900 Macchia, Vino Noceto, CG DiAire
Guadagni DCV 1910s Preston, Dehlinger
Guido Venturi Mendocino 1940 Woodenhead
Hartford RRV 1910 Hartford
Hayne Napa 1903 Turley, Chase
Heymar/Gobar Ranch Alexander 1913 Ravenswood
Highwire RRV 1913 Hartford
Hoo Doo Creek Lake 1930s Medusa
Jackass RRV 1880 Martinelli
Jackass Hill RRV 1899 Martinelli, Williams-Selyem
Jimsomare SCM 1900 Ridge
JJ Cohn Napa 1945 Scarecrow
John Teldeschi DCV Bedrock, Ravenswood
Jolene's/Maffei Ranch RRV 1928 Hartford
Kristina RRV 1935 Ledson
Langtry Road SV 1880s Ridge
Library Napa 1930 Turley
Lily Hill Estate DCV 1920s Bella Vineyards
Limerick Lane (Collins) SV 1911 Limerick Lane, Gary Farrell
Lion Oaks SCM 1899 Storrs
Live Oak Contra Costa 1899 Cline
Lizzie James Lodi 1904 Harney Lane
Lopez Cucamonga 1918 Carol Sheldon, Geyser Peak
Lorenzo's DCV 1909 Bedrock
Lovau DCV 1943 Daschle
Lubenko Amador 1911 Shenandoah, Sobon
Luvisi Napa 1908 Briggs
Lytton Estate DCV 1901 Ridge
Mancini RRV 1924 Swan
Mancuso/ Morse/ Lasseter Ranch SV 1919 Bedrock
Maple DCV 1910 Ducher Crossing, Pezzi King, Armida, Mazzocco, Carol Shelton, Maples
Marian's Lodi 1901 St. Amant
Martinelli Road RRV 1880 Carlisle, Woodenhead
Massoni Amador 1910 Runquist
Mattern Ranch Mendocino 1933 Turley
Mazzoni Home Ranch Alexander 1890s Ridge, Kenwood
McDowell Valley Vineyards Mendocino 1948 McDowell Valley Vineyards
McElarney and Smith SV 1888 Rosenblum
Mead Ranch Napa 1960s* Biale
Mencarini Lodi 1950 Abundance
Mettler Lodi 1907 Mettler
Midway Ranch RRV 1920s
Mohr-Fry Lodi 1930 St. Amant, Joel Gott, Eola Hills, Valhalla
Montafi Ranch (Tom Feeney) RRV 1926 Carlisle, Williams Seylem, Starry Night
Monte Bello SCM 1949 Ridge
Monte Rosso SV 1886 Biale, Rancho Zabaco, Martini, Ravenswood, Ridge, Rosenblum, Amapola Creek, Charter Oaks, Stryker, Carlisle, Bedrock
Moore "Earthquake" Napa 1906 Turley, Biale
Moratto RRV 1920 Gamba
Morelli Lane RRV 1890s Eno, Dutton-Goldfield
Mori Contra Costa 1930s Turley
Nalle DCV 1910s Nalle
Nervo Alexander 1899 Ridge, Trione
Nichelini Napa 1929 Nichelini
Oat Valley Alexander 1900s Ridge
Old Kraft Napa 1890s Biale
Old Crane Napa 1880s Biale
Old Hill Ranch SV 1880 Bucklin, Ravenswood, Roudin-Smith
Pacini Mendocino 1943 Steele
Pagani Ranch SV 1902 Ridge, St. Francis, Carlisle, Bedrock
Palisades Napa 1902 Stag's Leap, Miner, Carver Sutro, Biale, Carlisle
Papera Ranch (Carlo's) RRV 1934 Carlisle, Bedrock, Novy, DeLoach, Williams Seylem
Pato Contra Costa 1940s Phinney, Neyers
Pedroncelli DCV 1927 Pedroncelli
Perli Mendocino 1899 Edmeades
Pesenti Paso 1923 Turley, Presenti
Picchetti SCM 1880s Ridge, Picchetti
Pietra Santa Cienega 1905 Pietra Santa
Piffero Mendocino 1930 Edmeades
Planchon Contra Costa 1901 Franus, Rosenblum
Ponzo RRV 1920s Nickel & Nickel
Puccini SV 1906 Noyes, Bedrock
Puccioni DCV 1904 Puccioni
Raboli Livermore 1915 Murrietas Well, Wood Family
Recetti Mendocino 1930s Claudia Springs, Fetzer
Redwood Valley Mendocino 1934 Pellegrini
Rossi Ranch SV 1910 Carlisle
Rossi Vineyard Napa Thackrey
Royal-Tee Lodi 1890s Jessie's Grove
Rue Vineyard RRV 1910 Rue
Saitone RRV 1895 DeLoach
Salvador Contra Costa 1896 Turley
Samsel Mendocino 1890s Rosenblum
Saucelito Canyon SLO 1880s Saucelito Canyon
Sausal Alexander 1890s Sausal
Savannah-Chanelle SCM 1897 Savannah-Chanelle
Scherrer Alexander 1912 Scherrer
Schmierer Lodi 1903 Soquel
Serracino DCV 1930 Peter Paul, Pezzi King
Seghesio SV 1902 Seghesio
Shaw SV 1882 Kunde Estate
Small Berry Contra Costa 1910 Cline
Soucie Lodi 1916 M2
Stellwagen SV 1899 Bedrock, Swan
St. Peter's Church Sonoma 1888 Rosenblum, Valdez Family
Story "Picnic Hill" Amador 1907
Stryker Alexander 1920s Stryker
T.C. Vineyard Amador 1914
Talty DCV 1920s Talty
Tambellini DCV 1930s Quivira
Teldeschi Ranch DCV 1885 Carlisle
Tofanelli Napa 1929 Turley, Tofanelli, Swift
Tollini Mendocino 1924 Lolonis
Trentadue Ranch Alexander 1892 Ridge, Trentadue
Tucker/Canard Ranch Napa 1880s Biale
Twin Pines RRV 1900 Battaglini
Two Acres RRV 1910 Carlisle
Ueberroth Paso 1885 Turley
Upton Amador 1922 Karly
Valsecci Napa 1900 Biale
Varozza Napa 1900 Biale
Vogensen DCV 1900 Ravenswood, Preston
Von Weidlich RRV 1937 Ottimino, Radio-Coteau, DeLoach, Bedrock
Wellington SV 1892 Wellington
Westwind Lodi 1945 Jessie's Grove
White Oak Alexander 1929 White Oak
Whitten Ranch SV 1890s Ridge
Winberrie RRV 1905 Sapphire Hill
Woodside SCM 1897 Woodside
York Creek Napa 1935 Ridge
Zampatti Sonoma 1915 Turley
Zeigler RRV 1924 Swan
Zeni Mendocino 1917 Edmeades
Zichichi DCV 1940s Zichichi

[M. Dildine]

Any information on who is producing wine from this vineyard today?

Dal Porto Amador (1920s)

[Ken Zinns]

Any information on who is producing wine from this vineyard today?

Dal Porto Amador (1920s)

Sounds like at least part of this vineyard was replanted in the '70s:
http://books.google.com/books?id=vrBH5f ... &q&f=false (some cool photos and useful info in there)
http://www.snooth.com/winery/dillian-wi ... scriptions

But this makes it sound like maybe part of the vineyard still has the old vines?:
http://www.avf.org/article.html?id=3287&year=2002

Kind of confusing info, and afraid I don't have any additional insight as to the situation, though contacting Dillian Winery should clarify things.

[M. Dildine]

Excellent research Ken - thanks!

When we finally get the project off the ground (hopefully soon), and go out directly to wineries and growers, there are going to be a number of vineyards that will take some serious work to get our arms around with any credibility. Many of these are in Amador!

[Misha Heaton]

While they don't name the vineyard, Mueller Winery says there's a block of Zin planted in 1915 that they use for their "Old Vine"Zin.

From their website:
"Our Russian River zinfandel is produced from a single block vineyard, planted in 1915, located near the eastern border of the Russian River Valley appellation. Directly east of the vineyard is the Chalk Hill appellation. This vineyard only partially experiences the cooling impact of fog from the Russian River due to its distance from the water."

[Ed C u s t a r d]

Just finished reading this entire thread and I'm in Zin heaven.

What an amazing collaborative effort and an outstanding addition to the literature. Bravo!

[M. Dildine]

While they don't name the vineyard, Mueller Winery says there's a block of Zin planted in 1915 that they use for their "Old Vine"Zin.

From their website:
"Our Russian River zinfandel is produced from a single block vineyard, planted in 1915, located near the eastern border of the Russian River Valley appellation. Directly east of the vineyard is the Chalk Hill appellation. This vineyard only partially experiences the cooling impact of fog from the Russian River due to its distance from the water."

Misha - nice work! We suspect that there are a good number of these vineyards that go unnamed into "Old Vine" Zinfandels. Thank you!

[M. Dildine]

Ed - thank you! We plan to do much more more with California's historic vineyards, beginning with a vineyard survey that will go out in August.

Here is an updated vineyard listing:

101 Vineyard Alexander 1930s Turley
Aldo's Napa 1937 Biale
Alegria Vineyards RRV 1890 Ridge, Stryker, Acorn
Alexander Valley Road Alexander 1923 Turley
Amy's RRV 1910 Ledson
Angeli Ranch Alexander Porter Creek, Marietta
Aparicio Amador 1934 Rosenblum
Bacchi Ranch RRV 1909
Bacigalupi RRV 1950 Arista, Chronicle, John Tyler, Williams Seylem
Baldinelli (Dickson) Amador 1920s Terre Rouge
Barricia SV 1888? 1990s? Ravenswood, Kenwood
Beatty Ranch Napa 1920s Vie
Bechtold-Cinsault Lodi 1883 Turley
Bedrock SV 1888 Bedrock, Ravenswood, Carlisle
Belloni RRV 1920 Ravenswood
Benito Dusi Paso 1923 Ridge, Dover Canyon
Berry Mendocino 1940 Navarro
Biagi RRV 1940s
Big Break Contra Costa 1910 Cline
Big River Alexander 1893 Dashe, Ravenswood, Bella
Bingham Ranch Napa 1890s
Boeger El Dorado 1880s Boeger
Brandlin Ranch Napa 1926 Rosenblum, Franus
Bridgehead, Contra Costa, 1900, Cline Contra Costa 1900 Cline
Burnett DCV 1920s Alderbrook
Butler/Slazinski Sonoma 1920s DeLoach
Carlisle (Pelletti) RRV 1927 Carlisle, Novy, DeLoach
Casa Santinamaria/Maggies Reserve SV 1890s Rosenblum, Saxon Brown
Catfish Lake 1901 Steele
Chauvet SV 1936 Ravenswood, Coturri, Roudon-Smith
Chelli RRV 1890s Hartford
Ciapusci Mendocino 1902
Carla's Contra Costa 1902 Carla's Vineyard, Rosenblum
Coffaro DCV 1890's Coffarro, Wine Guerrilla
Collins Napa 1923 Biale
Coturri SV 1935 Coturri
Crow Ridge RRV 1920 V. Sattui
Cullinane SV 1930s Ledson, Rosenblum
D&D Ranch Alexander 1930s Ridge
Dal Porto Amador 1920s
Dante Dusi Ranch Paso 1945 Turley
Deaver Amador 1930s Deaver, Medusa
DeRose Cienega 1899 DeRose
Dickerson Napa 1930 Ravenswood, Dickerson
Dina's (Chelli) RRV 1910 Hartford
Dogtown Lodi 1944 Turley
Dolinsek Ranch (Frati Ranch) RRV 1910 Bedrock, Mara
Duarte Contra Costa 1899 Turley, Rosenblum
DuPratt Mendocino 1920s Steele
Emmons/Riebli SV 1920s DeLoach
Eschen-Rinaldi Amador 1910s Terre Rouge, Renwood
Esola Amador 1910 Amador Foothill, Ridge
Evangehlo Contra Costa 1910 Jade Mt.
Falleri Napa 1924 Biale
Fanucchi-Wood RRV 1906 Hartford, Fannucchi
Fava Ranch RRV 1922 Marcucci Farms
Felice Connolly Napa 1920s Talty
Fieldstone Alexander 1894 Fieldstone
Forchini RRV/DCV 1910 Forchini, Williams Selyem, Wine Guerrilla
Fredericks (Weiss) SV 1937 Turley
Frediani Napa 1920 T Vine Cellars
Fredson Ranch Alexander 1900s Ridge
Gaddis RRV 1903 Chronicle
Galleano Cucamonga 1925 Galleano
Gamba RRV 1900 Gamba
Gambogi RRV 1909 Chronicle, Hook and Ladder
Gibson Block Mendocino 1919 McDowell Valley Vineyards
Ghiradelli Calaveras 1900 Milliaire
Gold Mine Ranch DCV 1914 Carlisle
Grande Napa 1920 Biale
Grandpere Amador 1900 Macchia, Vino Noceto, CG DiAire
Guadagni DCV 1910s Preston, Dehlinger
Guido Venturi Mendocino 1940 Woodenhead
Hartford RRV 1910 Hartford
Hayne Napa 1903 Turley, Chase
Heymar/Gobar Ranch Alexander 1913 Ravenswood
Highwire RRV 1913 Hartford
Hoo Doo Creek Lake 1930s Medusa
Jackass RRV 1880 Martinelli
Jackass Hill RRV 1899 Martinelli, Williams-Selyem
Jimsomare SCM 1900 Ridge
JJ Cohn Napa 1945 Scarecrow
John Teldeschi DCV Bedrock, Ravenswood
Jolene's/Maffei Ranch RRV 1928 Hartford
Kristina RRV 1935 Ledson
Langtry Road SV 1880s Ridge
Library Napa 1930 Turley
Lily Hill Estate DCV 1920s Bella Vineyards
Limerick Lane (Collins) SV 1911 Limerick Lane, Gary Farrell
Lion Oaks SCM 1899 Storrs
Live Oak Contra Costa 1899 Cline
Lizzie James Lodi 1904 Harney Lane
Lopez Cucamonga 1918 Carol Sheldon, Geyser Peak
Lorenzo's DCV 1909 Bedrock
Lovau DCV 1943 Daschle
Lubenko Amador 1911 Shenandoah, Sobon
Luvisi Napa 1908 Briggs
Lytton Estate DCV 1901 Ridge
Mancini RRV 1924 Swan
Mancuso/ Morse/ Lasseter Ranch SV 1919 Bedrock
Maple DCV 1910 Ducher Crossing, Pezzi King, Armida, Mazzocco, Carol Shelton, Maples
Marian's Lodi 1901 St. Amant
Martinelli Road RRV 1880 Carlisle, Woodenhead
Massoni Amador 1910 Runquist
Mattern Ranch Mendocino 1933 Turley
Mazzoni Home Ranch Alexander 1890s Ridge
McDowell Valley Vineyards Mendocino 1948 McDowell Valley Vineyards
McElarney and Smith SV 1888 Rosenblum
Mead Ranch Napa 1960s* Biale
Mencarini Lodi 1950 Abundance
Mettler Lodi 1907 Mettler
Midway Ranch RRV 1920s Ponzo, Ridge
Mohr-Fry Lodi 1930 St. Amant, Joel Gott, Eola Hills, Valhalla
Montafi Ranch (Tom Feeney) RRV 1926 Carlisle, Williams Seylem, Starry Night
Monte Bello SCM 1949 Ridge
Monte Rosso SV 1886 Biale, Rancho Zabaco, Martini, Ravenswood, Ridge, Rosenblum, Amapola Creek, Charter Oaks, Stryker, Carlisle, Bedrock
Moore "Earthquake" Napa 1906 Turley, Biale
Moratto RRV 1920 Gamba
Morelli Lane RRV 1890s Eno, Dutton-Goldfield
Mori Contra Costa 1930s Turley
Mueller RRV 1915
Nalle DCV 1910s Nalle
Nervo Alexander 1899 Ridge, Trione
Nichelini Napa 1929 Nichelini
Oat Valley Alexander 1900s Ridge
Old Kraft Napa 1890s Biale
Old Crane Napa 1880s Biale
Old Hill Ranch SV 1885 Bucklin, Ravenswood, Roudin-Smith
Pacini Mendocino 1943 Steele
Pagani Ranch SV 1902 Ridge, St. Francis, Carlisle, Bedrock
Palisades Napa 1902 Stag's Leap, Miner, Carver Sutro, Biale, Carlisle
Papera Ranch (Carlo's) RRV 1934 Carlisle, Bedrock, Novy, DeLoach, Williams Seylem
Pato Contra Costa 1940s Phinney, Neyers
Pedroncelli DCV 1927 Pedroncelli
Perli Mendocino 1899 Edmeades
Pesenti Paso 1923 Turley, Presenti
Picchetti SCM 1880s Ridge, Picchetti
Pietra Santa Cienega 1905 Pietra Santa
Piffero Mendocino 1930 Edmeades
Planchon Contra Costa 1901 Franus, Rosenblum
Ponzo RRV 1920s Ridge, Nickel & Nickel
Puccini SV 1906 Noyes, Bedrock
Puccioni DCV 1904 Puccioni
Raboli Livermore 1915 Murrietas Well, Wood Family
Recetti Mendocino 1930s Claudia Springs, Fetzer
Redwood Valley Mendocino 1934 Pellegrini
Rossi Ranch SV 1910 Carlisle
Rossi Vineyard Napa Thackrey
Royal-Tee Lodi 1890s Jessie's Grove
Rue Vineyard RRV 1910 Rue
Saitone RRV 1895 DeLoach
Salvador Contra Costa 1896 Turley
Samsel Mendocino 1890s Rosenblum
Saucelito Canyon SLO 1880s Saucelito Canyon
Sausal Alexander 1890s Sausal
Savannah-Chanelle SCM 1897 Savannah-Chanelle
Scherrer Alexander 1912 Scherrer
Schmierer Lodi 1903 Soquel
Serracino DCV 1930 Peter Paul, Pezzi King
Seghesio SV 1902 Seghesio
Shaw SV 1882 Kunde Estate
Small Berry Contra Costa 1910 Cline
Soucie Lodi 1916 M2
Stellwagen SV 1899 Bedrock, Swan
St. Peter's Church Sonoma 1888 Rosenblum, Valdez Family
Story "Picnic Hill" Amador 1907 Story, Turley
Stryker Alexander 1920s Stryker
T.C. Vineyard Amador 1914
Talty DCV 1920s Talty
Tambellini DCV 1930s Quivira
Teldeschi Ranch DCV 1885 Carlisle
Tofanelli Napa 1929 Turley, Tofanelli, Swift
Tollini Mendocino 1924 Lolonis
Trentadue Ranch Alexander 1892 Ridge, Trentadue
Tucker/Canard Ranch Napa 1880s Biale
Twin Pines RRV 1900 Battaglini
Two Acres RRV 1910 Carlisle
Ueberroth Paso 1885 Turley
Upton Amador 1922 Karly
Valsecci Napa 1900 Biale
Varozza Napa 1900 Biale
Vogensen DCV 1900 Ravenswood, Preston
Von Weidlich RRV 1937 Ottimino, Radio-Coteau, DeLoach, Bedrock
Wellington SV 1892 Wellington
Westwind Lodi 1945 Jessie's Grove
White Oak Alexander 1929 White Oak
Whitten Ranch (Geyserville) Alexander 1890s Ridge
Winberrie RRV 1905 Sapphire Hill
Woodside SCM 1897 Woodside
York Creek Napa 1935 Ridge
Zampatti Sonoma 1915 Turley
Zeigler RRV 1924 Swan
Zeni Mendocino 1917 Edmeades
Zichichi DCV 1940s Zichichi

[Carl Steefel]

Wow, I don't know much about Zinfandel, but I had the 2007 Ridge Zinfandel Ponzo Vineyard that ranked as my worst bottle of wine of the year so far, hands down. As a long time admirer of Ridge, I was aghast that they could produce such a simple, verging on insipid, wine. At the time I attributed this to the Ponzo Vineyard in a purely speculative way, given the usual quality I find in Ridge wines...

[Misha Heaton]

Hi Mike,

Here's another to put on the list:

Buchignani/Garcia DCV 1895-1940 Deerfield

From the Deerfield Ranch website:
Vineyard and Vintage: Dry Creek Valley, in Sonoma County, is the premier appellation in the world for Zinfandel. The Buchignani family pioneered grape farming in the Dry Creek Valley, planting vineyards before the turn of the 20th century. Susie Buchignani married JoJo Garcia and the Buchignani Vineyard became the Buchignani/Garcia Vineyard. JoJo is the best dry farmer I know.
Dry farming means that only the winter rains water the vines, remaining dry throughout the 4 to 5 month California summer and fall dry season. This is very specialized farming that requires tireless effort and a great deal of experience to produce optimal fruit and long living vines. The vines in the Deerfield section are between 70 and 115 years old.

[M. Dildine]

Hi Mike,

Here's another to put on the list:

Buchignani/Garcia DCV 1895-1940 Deerfield

From the Deerfield Ranch website:
Vineyard and Vintage: Dry Creek Valley, in Sonoma County, is the premier appellation in the world for Zinfandel. The Buchignani family pioneered grape farming in the Dry Creek Valley, planting vineyards before the turn of the 20th century. Susie Buchignani married JoJo Garcia and the Buchignani Vineyard became the Buchignani/Garcia Vineyard. JoJo is the best dry farmer I know.
Dry farming means that only the winter rains water the vines, remaining dry throughout the 4 to 5 month California summer and fall dry season. This is very specialized farming that requires tireless effort and a great deal of experience to produce optimal fruit and long living vines. The vines in the Deerfield section are between 70 and 115 years old.

Wonderful Misha, thank you!

[M. Dildine]

The database as of 7/22. We hope to initiate the vineyard survey next month.

101 Vineyard Alexander 1930s Turley
Aldo's Napa 1937 Biale
Alegria Vineyards RRV 1890 Ridge, Stryker, Acorn
Alexander Valley Road Alexander 1923 Turley
Amy's RRV 1910 Ledson
Angeli Ranch Alexander Porter Creek, Marietta
Aparicio Amador 1934 Rosenblum
Bacchi Ranch RRV 1909
Bacigalupi RRV 1950 Arista, Chronicle, John Tyler, Williams Seylem
Baldinelli (Dickson) Amador 1920s Terre Rouge, Easton
Barricia SV 1888? 1990s? Ravenswood, Kenwood
Beatty Ranch Napa 1920s Vie
Bechtold-Cinsault Lodi 1883 Turley
Bedrock SV 1888 Bedrock, Ravenswood, Carlisle
Belloni RRV 1920 Ravenswood
Benito Dusi Paso 1923 Ridge, Dover Canyon
Berry Mendocino 1940 Navarro
Biagi RRV 1940s
Big Break Contra Costa 1910 Cline
Big River Alexander 1893 Dashe, Ravenswood, Bella
Bingham Ranch Napa 1890s
Boeger El Dorado 1880s Boeger
Brandlin Ranch Napa 1926 Rosenblum, Franus
Bridgehead, Contra Costa, 1900, Cline Contra Costa 1900 Cline
Buchignani/Garcia DCV 1940 Deerfield
Burnett DCV 1920s Alderbrook
Butler/Slazinski Sonoma 1920s DeLoach
Carlisle (Pelletti) RRV 1927 Carlisle, Novy, DeLoach
Casa Santinamaria/Maggies Reserve SV 1890s Rosenblum, Saxon Brown
Catfish Lake 1901 Steele
Chauvet SV 1936 Ravenswood, Coturri, Roudon-Smith
Chelli RRV 1890s Hartford
Ciapusci Mendocino 1902
Carla's Contra Costa 1902 Carla's Vineyard, Rosenblum
Coffaro DCV 1890's Coffarro, Wine Guerrilla
Collins Napa 1923 Biale
Coturri SV 1935 Coturri
Crow Ridge RRV 1920 V. Sattui
Cullinane SV 1930s Ledson, Rosenblum
D&D Ranch Alexander 1930s Ridge
Dal Porto Amador 1920s
Dante Dusi Ranch Paso 1945 Turley
Deaver Amador 1930s Deaver, Medusa
DeRose Cienega 1899 DeRose
Dickerson Napa 1930 Ravenswood, Dickerson
Dina's (Chelli) RRV 1910 Hartford
Dogtown Lodi 1944 Turley
Dolinsek Ranch (Frati Ranch) RRV 1910 Bedrock, Mara
Duarte Contra Costa 1899 Turley, Rosenblum
DuPratt Mendocino 1920s Steele
Emmons/Riebli SV 1920s DeLoach
Eschen-Rinaldi Amador 1910s Terre Rouge, Renwood
Esola Amador 1910 Amador Foothill, Ridge
Evangehlo Contra Costa 1910 Jade Mt.
Falleri Napa 1924 Biale
Fanucchi-Wood RRV 1906 Hartford, Fannucchi
Fava Ranch RRV 1922 Marcucci Farms
Felice Connolly Napa 1920s Talty
Fieldstone Alexander 1894 Fieldstone
Forchini RRV/DCV 1910 Forchini, Williams Selyem, Wine Guerrilla
Fredericks (Weiss) SV 1937 Turley
Frediani Napa 1920 T Vine Cellars, August Briggs
Fredson Ranch Alexander 1900s Ridge
Gaddis RRV 1903 Chronicle
Galleano Cucamonga 1925 Galleano
Gamba RRV 1900 Gamba
Gambogi RRV 1909 Chronicle, Hook and Ladder
Gibson Block Mendocino 1919 McDowell Valley Vineyards
Ghiradelli Calaveras 1900 Milliaire
Gold Mine Ranch DCV 1914 Carlisle
Grande Napa 1920 Biale
Grandpere Amador 1900 Macchia, Vino Noceto, CG DiAire
Guadagni DCV 1910s Preston, Dehlinger
Guido Venturi Mendocino 1940 Woodenhead
Hartford RRV 1910 Hartford
Hayne Napa 1903 Turley, Chase
Heymar/Gobar Ranch Alexander 1913 Ravenswood
Highwire RRV 1913 Hartford
Hoo Doo Creek Lake 1930s Medusa
Jackass RRV 1880 Martinelli
Jackass Hill RRV 1899 Martinelli, Williams-Selyem
Jimsomare SCM 1900 Ridge
JJ Cohn Napa 1945 Scarecrow
John Teldeschi DCV Bedrock, Ravenswood
Jolene's/Maffei Ranch RRV 1928 Hartford
Kristina RRV 1935 Ledson
Langtry Road SV 1880s Ridge
Lasseter SV 1919 Bedrock
Library Napa 1930 Turley
Lily Hill Estate DCV 1920s Bella Vineyards
Limerick Lane (Collins) SV 1911 Limerick Lane, Gary Farrell
Lion Oaks SCM 1899 Storrs
Live Oak Contra Costa 1899 Cline
Lizzie James Lodi 1904 Harney Lane
Lopez Cucamonga 1918 Carol Sheldon, Geyser Peak
Lorenzo's DCV 1909 Bedrock
Lovau DCV 1943 Daschle
Lubenko Amador 1911 Shenandoah, Sobon
Luvisi Napa 1908 Briggs
Lytton Estate DCV 1901 Ridge
Mancini RRV 1924 Swan
Mancuso/ Morse/ Lasseter Ranch SV 1919 Bedrock
Maple DCV 1910 Ducher Crossing, Pezzi King, Armida, Mazzocco, Carol Shelton, Maples
Marian's Lodi 1901 St. Amant
Martinelli Road RRV 1880 Carlisle, Woodenhead
Massoni Amador 1910 Runquist
Mattern Ranch Mendocino 1933 Turley
Mazzoni Home Ranch Alexander 1890s Ridge
McDowell Valley Vineyards Mendocino 1948 McDowell Valley Vineyards
McElarney and Smith SV 1888 Rosenblum
Mead Ranch Napa 1960s* Biale
Mencarini Lodi 1950 Abundance
Mettler Lodi 1907 Mettler
Midway Ranch RRV 1920s Ponzo, Ridge
Mohr-Fry Lodi 1930 St. Amant, Joel Gott, Eola Hills, Valhalla
Montafi Ranch (Tom Feeney) RRV 1926 Carlisle, Williams Seylem, Starry Night
Monte Bello SCM 1949 Ridge
Monte Rosso SV 1886 Biale, Rancho Zabaco, Martini, Ravenswood, Ridge, Rosenblum, Amapola Creek, Charter Oaks, Stryker, Carlisle, Bedrock
Moore "Earthquake" Napa 1906 Turley, Biale
Moratto RRV 1920 Gamba
Morelli Lane RRV 1890s Eno, Dutton-Goldfield
Mori Contra Costa 1930s Turley
Nalle DCV 1910s Nalle
Nervo Alexander 1899 Ridge, Trione
Nichelini Napa 1929 Nichelini
Oat Valley Alexander 1900s Ridge
Old Kraft Napa 1890s Biale
Old Crane Napa 1880s Biale
Old Hill Ranch SV 1885 Bucklin, Ravenswood, Roudin-Smith
Pacini Mendocino 1943 Steele
Pagani Ranch SV 1902 Ridge, St. Francis, Carlisle, Bedrock
Palisades Napa 1902 Stag's Leap, Miner, Carver Sutro, Biale, Carlisle
Papera Ranch (Carlo's) RRV 1934 Carlisle, Bedrock, Novy, DeLoach, Williams Seylem
Pato Contra Costa 1940s Phinney, Neyers
Pedroncelli DCV 1927 Pedroncelli
Perli Mendocino 1899 Edmeades
Pesenti Paso 1923 Turley, Presenti
Picchetti SCM 1880s Ridge, Picchetti
Pietra Santa Cienega 1905 Pietra Santa
Piffero Mendocino 1930 Edmeades
Planchon Contra Costa 1901 Franus, Rosenblum
Ponzo RRV 1920s Ridge, Nickel & Nickel
Puccini SV 1906 Noyes, Bedrock
Puccioni DCV 1904 Puccioni
Raboli Livermore 1915 Murrietas Well, Wood Family
Recetti Mendocino 1930s Claudia Springs, Fetzer
Redwood Valley Mendocino 1934 Pellegrini
Rossi Ranch SV 1910 Carlisle
Rossi Vineyard Napa Thackrey
Royal-Tee Lodi 1890s Jessie's Grove
Rue Vineyard RRV 1910 Rue
Saitone RRV 1895 DeLoach
Salvador Contra Costa 1896 Turley
Samsel Mendocino 1890s Rosenblum
Saucelito Canyon SLO 1880s Saucelito Canyon
Sausal Alexander 1890s Sausal
Savannah-Chanelle SCM 1897 Savannah-Chanelle
Scatena SV 1930s Bedrock
Scherrer Alexander 1912 Scherrer
Schmierer Lodi 1903 Soquel
Serracino DCV 1930 Peter Paul, Pezzi King
Seghesio SV 1902 Seghesio
Shaw SV 1882 Kunde Estate
Small Berry Contra Costa 1910 Cline
Soucie Lodi 1916 M2
Stellwagen SV 1899 Bedrock, Swan
St. Peter's Church Sonoma 1888 Rosenblum, Valdez Family
Story "Picnic Hill" Amador 1907 Story, Turley
Stryker Alexander 1920s Stryker
T.C. Vineyard Amador 1914
Talty DCV 1920s Talty
Tambellini DCV 1930s Quivira
Teldeschi Ranch DCV 1885 Carlisle
Tofanelli Napa 1929 Turley, Tofanelli, Swift, Schrader
Tollini Mendocino 1924 Lolonis
Trentadue Ranch Alexander 1892 Ridge, Trentadue
Tucker/Canard Ranch Napa 1880s Biale
Twin Pines RRV 1900 Battaglini
Two Acres RRV 1910 Carlisle
Ueberroth Paso 1885 Turley
Upton Amador 1922 Karly
Valsecci Napa 1900 Biale
Varozza Napa 1900 Biale
Vogensen DCV 1900 Ravenswood, Preston
Von Weidlich RRV 1937 Ottimino, Radio-Coteau, DeLoach, Bedrock
Wellington SV 1892 Wellington
Westwind Lodi 1945 Jessie's Grove
White Oak Alexander 1929 White Oak
Whitten Ranch (Geyserville) Alexander 1890s Ridge
Winberrie RRV 1905 Sapphire Hill
Woodside SCM 1897 Woodside
York Creek Napa 1935 Ridge
Zampatti Sonoma 1915 Turley
Zeigler RRV 1924 Swan
Zeni Mendocino 1917 Edmeades
Zichichi DCV 1940s Zichichi

[Jon Bjork]

Here are a couple of corrections for Lodi that I discovered while writing my latest blog at http://www.lodinews.com/blogs/the_lodi_ ... 002e0.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Bechtold-Cinsault Lodi 1883 Turley
should be
Bechtold-Cinsault Lodi 1885 Turley, Scholium Project (note that there is no Zin planted in that vineyard)

Royal-Tee Lodi 1890s Jessie's Grove
should be
Royal-Tee Lodi 1889 Jessie's Grove

[M. Dildine]

Here are a couple of corrections for Lodi that I discovered while writing my latest blog at http://www.lodinews.com/blogs/the_lodi_ ... 002e0.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Bechtold-Cinsault Lodi 1883 Turley
should be
Bechtold-Cinsault Lodi 1885 Turley, Scholium Project (note that there is no Zin planted in that vineyard)

Royal-Tee Lodi 1890s Jessie's Grove
should be
Royal-Tee Lodi 1889 Jessie's Grove

Good stuff Jon, thanks!

[M. Dildine]

Anyone have any dope on Contra Costa's Evangelho Vineyard (1910)?

Jade Mt. was making a Mourved from these grapes, but apparently is not currently.

[Sean Devaney]

I don't know who is getting the Mourvedre these days but Toucan Wines is making a Carignane from Evangelho. See http://toucanwines.com/wines.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Larry P]

I posted this in the Mourvedre topic but in hindsight it belongs here:

Three Wine Co has an Evangelho Zin, I have a few of these in my cellar:

http://www.threewinecompany.com/home/th ... fandel.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

...claims Evangelho "was established about 118 years prior to this vintage" (2007 which puts it about 1889).

[Larry P]

BTW Mike this is a fantastic project and dear to my heart.

I assumed from the outset that I probably don't have anyting to contribute, but the Evangelho shows I need to scan my cellar for any other hidden information. Livemore should have some - maybe more likely Petite Sirah than Zin. I can ask around Concannon & Murrieta's Well.

Forgive me if this is already covered, but I haven't read the entire thread yet. Is there an end goal here besides the registry? It would be great to see a printed book that covers California's heritage vines. Indeed I'd love to do the photography for such a book.

[M. Dildine]

BTW Mike this is a fantastic project and dear to my heart.

I assumed from the outset that I probably don't have anyting to contribute, but the Evangelho shows I need to scan my cellar for any other hidden information. Livemore should have some - maybe more likely Petite Sirah than Zin. I can ask around Concannon & Murrieta's Well.

Forgive me if this is already covered, but I haven't read the entire thread yet. Is there an end goal here besides the registry? It would be great to see a printed book that covers California's heritage vines. Indeed I'd love to do the photography for such a book.

Thanks Larry! This project was initiated back in February with the first post on this thread. I have been amazed and thrilled with the response. I had no idea that so many people were as passionate about California's heritage vineyards as I am.

This thread makes a long and interesting read. Many people on this Board have made meaningful contributions. To answer your question - yes. We have big plans in support of our historic vines. Specifically, we are looking at an interactive website, vineyard tours, tastings and the possibility of a book. An Advisory Council of some of California's most respected old vine practitioners has been assembled. I am very excited about the possibilities ahead. Watch this space!

[Larry P]

I'm still taking all this in - sooner rather than later we need to organize an offline to uncork a few of these...

Mike, we'll talk offline about any photography support I can lend.

For the registry:

Spinelli Vinyard Contra Costa 1909? Trinitas Cellars Zin, Three Wine Co Mataro

Contradiction on the date:

http://www.trinitascellars.com/wines/20 ... nelli.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
"The vineyard source for these Zinfandel grapes was planted in 1909 by Portuguese settlers John and Marie Azevedo. In 1955 Gustavo Spenelli along with his wife Mary and two sons Frank, and Angelo began to manage the vineyard for the Azevedo family. They purchased the 18 acre parcel in 1970. Sadly only five acres remain. Fifty-two years of family vineyard management made this wine the gem of our 2005 Vintage."

http://www.threewinecompany.com/home/th ... Mataro.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
"Established over 126 years prior to this vintage, the Spinelli vineyard is still being dry-farmed and is growing on its own roots. There is a scent of violets, ripe black-cherries, chocolate, Provencal herbs and tobacco leaf with a minerality (dusty berry) sneaking through. The Petite Sirah adds structure, color, and blue-fruit character while the Black Malvoisie adds softness and a perfumed raspberry aroma. With such a low pH and big fruit flavor, don’t hesitate to age this wine for 5-7 years"

[M. Dildine]

Great work Larry, thanks!

[Jon Bjork]

It occurred to me that I should look at some of the other vineyards in your list. Actually, the Grandpere Vineyard in Amador is the oldest Zin (and probably oldest period) producing vineyard in California. It probably goes back to 1865 or so, but you should contact Scott Harvey for the actual date.

I’m also pretty sure the Pagani Ranch goes back into the 1800’s.

You should probably also contact historian Charles L. Sullivan (http://www.amazon.com/s?ie=UTF8&rh=i%3A ... van&page=1" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;).

By the way – admittedly being too lazy to scroll back – what planting year is the cut-off for your list?

Great job!

[M. Dildine]

It occurred to me that I should look at some of the other vineyards in your list. Actually, the Grandpere Vineyard in Amador is the oldest Zin (and probably oldest period) producing vineyard in California. It probably goes back to 1865 or so, but you should contact Scott Harvey for the actual date.

I’m also pretty sure the Pagani Ranch goes back into the 1800’s.

You should probably also contact historian Charles L. Sullivan (http://www.amazon.com/s?ie=UTF8&rh=i%3A ... van&page=1" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;).

By the way – admittedly being too lazy to scroll back – what planting year is the cut-off for your list?

Great job!

Jon, I've read Sullivan's book - it contains a great account of the history of California's noble grape!

This thread is so long that even I would be hesitant to reread its entirety! We are including vineyards that can document that at least 1/3 of current production is sourced from vines planted no later than 1950.

[Harry Gruber]

BTW Mike this is a fantastic project and dear to my heart.

I assumed from the outset that I probably don't have anyting to contribute, but the Evangelho shows I need to scan my cellar for any other hidden information. Livemore should have some - maybe more likely Petite Sirah than Zin. I can ask around Concannon & Murrieta's Well.

Forgive me if this is already covered, but I haven't read the entire thread yet. Is there an end goal here besides the registry? It would be great to see a printed book that covers California's heritage vines. Indeed I'd love to do the photography for such a book.

Thanks Larry! This project was initiated back in February with the first post on this thread. I have been amazed and thrilled with the response. I had no idea that so many people were as passionate about California's heritage vineyards as I am.

This thread makes a long and interesting read. Many people on this Board have made meaningful contributions. To answer your question - yes. We have big plans in support of our historic vines. Specifically, we are looking at an interactive website, vineyard tours, tastings and the possibility of a book. An Advisory Council of some of California's most respected old vine practitioners has been assembled. I am very excited about the possibilities ahead. Watch this space!

Mike,

I haven't read this entire thread, and I hope I am not repeating something that was posted earlier, but today a friend at work passed along an offer of a Zin in celebration of Evangelho's 120th birthday. According to the offer (from WineAccess), Matt Cline of Cline Cellars produces a Zin from these grapes. The vineyard is in Oakley, in Contra Costa County.

Stay thirsty, my friend

Harry

[StuartCoulson]

What a great project!!

I own Papera Ranch. Details on your list are nearly correct.

"Papera Ranch (Carlo's) RRV 1934 Carlisle, Bedrock, Novy, DeLoach, Williams Seylem"

Carlo's is the name used by one of my winemakers because when I acquired the vineyard the name "Papera Ranch" was trademarked and did not belong to the most recent owner before me. I tracked the trademark down and acquired it, so the vineyard (and all the vineyard designations) are officially "Papera Ranch" as of 2007.

DeLoach do not receive fruit from the vineyard, and have not since they sold the vineyard in 2001, I believe. I list some other previous wines on the vineyard website - see below.

Bedrock will receive their first fruit this year 2010, from one block of the vineyard which is an original field blend.

Carlisle, Novy and Williams Selyem all do a fantastic job with the fruit, including the equal highest ever Wine Spectator score for a Zinfandel for Carlisle's Papera Ranch 2007.

You can keep up with the vineyard on the website http://www.paperaranch.com" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; which is not updated as often as it should be - for more up-to-date news, check the facebook fan page http://www.facebook.com/PaperaRanch" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

That's pretty much all the information I have, but let me know if there is anything else I can do. And if anyone has more historical information about the vineyard, I would love to hear it.

- Stuart

[M. Dildine]

Harry - Thanks so much! Sorry we'll miss you next Sunday.

Stuart - great to hear from you! We will be following up with you very soon!

[Thomas Keim]

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who has put this together - what an amazing piece of information -

I believe that the Mohr-Fry Ranch in Lodi was planted in 1944 - I represent St Amant wines in the Midwest and that is the information I have from the late Tim Spencer and his son Stuart -

[Cris Whetstone]

Thanks for dropping in Stuart!

[Larry P]

...today a friend at work passed along an offer of a Zin in celebration of Evangelho's 120th birthday. According to the offer (from WineAccess), Matt Cline of Cline Cellars produces a Zin from these grapes. The vineyard is in Oakley, in Contra Costa County.

Hi Harry,

Just to clarify, Matt Cline formerly of Cline Cellars is making an Evangelho Zin under his new project, Three Wine Company.

[Harry Gruber]

...today a friend at work passed along an offer of a Zin in celebration of Evangelho's 120th birthday. According to the offer (from WineAccess), Matt Cline of Cline Cellars produces a Zin from these grapes. The vineyard is in Oakley, in Contra Costa County.

Hi Harry,

Just to clarify, Matt Cline formerly of Cline Cellars is making an Evangelho Zin under his new project, Three Wine Company.

Larry,

Sorry about that. The Wine Access offer did not make that clear, but I should have surmised as much because the label did not say anything about Cline.

Harry

[Ken Zinns]

It occurred to me that I should look at some of the other vineyards in your list. Actually, the Grandpere Vineyard in Amador is the oldest Zin (and probably oldest period) producing vineyard in California. It probably goes back to 1865 or so, but you should contact Scott Harvey for the actual date.

Jon, there's actually a good deal of debate on the true age of Grandpere - if you check back through this thread, you'll find some of the conflicting info. And in this case (as in many others, no doubt), it's in the vineyard owners' and winemakers' interests to claim the oldest date possible for the vineyard planting, which may or may not be accurate.

[M. Dildine]

It occurred to me that I should look at some of the other vineyards in your list. Actually, the Grandpere Vineyard in Amador is the oldest Zin (and probably oldest period) producing vineyard in California. It probably goes back to 1865 or so, but you should contact Scott Harvey for the actual date.

Jon, there's actually a good deal of debate on the true age of Grandpere - if you check back through this thread, you'll find some of the conflicting info. And in this case (as in many others, no doubt), it's in the vineyard owners' and winemakers' interests to claim the oldest date possible for the vineyard planting, which may or may not be accurate.

Another problem is that there has not been a consistent dating definition. We are attempting to date living, currently producing vineyards.

The question we will be asking Grandpere (and all historic vineyards) is:

"When is the earliest date you can trace at least 1/3 of your currently producing vines?"

This is a different (and more challenging) question than: "When were vines first planted here?"

[Wes Barton]

Anyone have any dope on Contra Costa's Evangelho Vineyard (1910)?

Jade Mt. was making a Mourved from these grapes, but apparently is not currently.

The Ridge version also cited 1910 for the Mataro vines. David Gates may have more info for you.

[Peter Petersen]

It is great to see that these issues are now truly viably discussions.
I tried twice on ebob to address the problem of the diminishing number of old vine zin vineyards. Both times people countered by arguing that economics speaks louder. And the reviewers over there, even those who seemingly care, never said a word. That speaks volumes I'm afraid.

[Brian Tuite]

Mike, here's an addition to the list:

Giovanetti Vineyard - Off of River and Olivet Rds - RR Valley planted 1896. St Francis buys the fruit.

Was talking to one of the Giovanetti's today. Seems they lost almost 90% of their crop to the 108º heat spike we had this week. They were only 1/2 way through verasion. Anything exposed to sun was burned and the protected clusters swelled in the heat and got soft. 7 acres of unusable fruit.

[Larry P]

Good sleuthing Brian.

The heat spike this week was nasty - some look like they might have come through it ok, but for many it turned a promising vintage into a disaster.

[Brian Tuite]

Good sleuthing Brian.

The heat spike this week was nasty - some look like they might have come through it ok, but for many it turned a promising vintage into a disaster.

I could hear the frustration in his voice as he talked about all the work to prevent rot from the cool foggy weather we were having only to have it all for naught when the temp went from 60º to 108º in a matter of 6 hours. Said he lost about $50K.

[M. Dildine]

Great job Brian - thanks!

[Ken Zinns]

Precedent Wine (Thomas Fogarty associate winemaker Nathan Kandler’s label) is now getting old-vine Zin from Evangelho Vineyard in Contra Costa. Nathan says the vines are supposed to be about 120 years old. He posted a YouTube video yesterday of the wine starting fermentation:

The 2010 Precedent Zinfandel, Evangelho Vineyard begins to ferment today after a 4 days of ambient soaking. The native yeast population has built up and begun to do its thing!

The grapes were picked on Monday, August 30.

These grapes come from vines planted 120 years ago. Dry farmed, own-rooted in pure sand.

We are draining off some juice to mix the tank (homogenizing temperature and consistency) and give the yeast a bit of air - a very gentle pump-over.

[youtube][/youtube]

[M. Dildine]

Fantastic Ken, thanks! There are some fabulous old vineyards in Contra Costa.

We have Evangelho as planted in 1910. Are you saying that at least 1/3 of the vineyards total producing vines were planted in 1890, or that a lesser segment (used for this particular run) were planted in 1890?

[Nathan Kandler]

Spent some time walking the vineyard with Frank Evangelho last week prior to the pick, what a great guy and the caretaker of a really unique vineyard. His family has been farming the vineyard since the 1930's i believe.

Franks spent quite a bit of time with Brother Timmothy, the Christain Brothers legend in the late 70's/early 80's - i think. I think these conversations were the source of the 1890 date. I can email frank and try and get more info.

The vineyard is really interesting - own rooted, dry farmed on 40+ ft of sand with a primarily zin block, a carignan block, a mataro block and a block of carignan and mataro mixed. I have seen palomino, some type of muscat and Frank told me there is a small block of alicante as well.

[Peter Kleban]

Is the mourvèdre gone? I have a few bottles of Jade Mt. mourved '05 "Ancient Vines" from that vineyard and would love to get more but can't find any trace of it. Thanks for any info.