Flying Cloud, Zinfandel (2022)

Paso Robles (San Miguel District). Zinfandel (87%) & Petite Sirah (13%). Sustainable farming. From Jack Knife Vineyard—700 ft elevation, 23 miles from the Pacific—with a Mediterranean swing of warm days and cool nights. The 2022 heat wave kept berries small (hello, concentration). Classic, hands-on winemaking: open-top stainless, hand punch-downs, basket press; French oak aging (12% new; rest four-times filled).  Deep ruby-garnet. Cranberry and strawberry preserves with dried marjoram/thyme, vanilla, and star anise. Medium body, silky tannins, and a lingering finish of crème brûlée, dried red fruits, and a pinch of black pepper.