Nestled atop a ridge west of Dry Creek Valley lies Bradford Mountain’s Grist Vineyard. Owned by wine industry veteran Bill Hambrecht, the Grist Vineyard is a bit different than its Dry Creek brethren. Elevation, proximity to the coast and soil composition make for a unique site and wine that shows great complexity and depth while retaining high acidity. Decomposing volcanic rock, a touch of clay and iron give Bradford Mountain’s Grist Vineyard a lovely, fertile red soil. Cool afternoon breezes from the Pacific Ocean calm the afternoon temperatures on Bradford Mountain, keeping it cooler than the lower Dry Creek Valley. This is an important component in maintaining acidity in the grapes. Grist Vineyard is planted to multiple grape varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Syrah, but the old-vine, head-trained Zinfandel is the star.

This wine shows bright clarity with medium intensity in appearance and a dark ruby core of color. The developing nose show medium plus intensity with aromas of blackberries, black cherries, fresh plums and dark fruits. Additional notes of earth, warm spice and cigar box show complexity. The palate shows medium plus flavor intensity, acidity, body and length. Bright notes of black cherry and warm spice dominate the palate with a soft, plush texture.