Pietra-Santa Vineyards and Winery

Pietra Santa’s winemaker, Alessio Carli, is a native of Siena, Italy – Chianti country – and worked at Badia a Coltibuono, so it’s not surprising that he has a way with Sangiovese. But he shows a nice touch with Zinfandel, too.

This Zin comes from 50-year-old vines from a neighboring Cienega Valley vineyard, as well as from vines on Pietra Santa’s own estate, including some planted in 1905. The wine spends 36 months in a combination of American and French oak barrels, but the fruit has retained a nice sweetness, despite the extended aging. It displays juicy berry flavors along with a note of tobacco and medium tannins. The wine is nicely balanced (and more than carries its 15.2 percent alcohol) and has a long, persistent finish. And, at $18, it’s reasonably priced. The winery suggests pairing this wine with grilled foods or hearty winter fare. I think it would be a nice partner for a warming beef stew, pizza or even with hard cheese that’s not too strongly flavored.

Reviewed January 9, 2007 by Laurie Daniel.