At a glance

Producer

C.G. di Arie Winery & Vineyards

Region

Sierra Foothills, California, USA

Grape variety

Zinfandel

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$35 USD

Tasting profile

Mature dark berry, dried plum, baking spice, hints of sweet oak; potentially earthy or leathery with age; soft palate, mellow finish

Evolution: Fruit intensity diminished, secondary notes (earth, spice, dried herbs) more pronounced; structure softened

At peak: Wine peaked 2014-2016, now best enjoyed for tertiary character rather than freshness

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Moderate, now well-integrated

Alcohol

Medium-high (~14.5%)

Aging potential

Typical for Sierra Foothills Zinfandel, generally optimized within 5-8 years of vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2014 to 2016

Optimal window

2012 to 2017

Current status

Late-maturity, at or slightly past peak for most bottles

Current condition

Likely soft and mature with fading fruit, best enjoyed soon if well cellared

C.G. di Arie Zinfandels from Sierra Foothills are robust but meant for enjoyment within 5-8 years. By 2024, the 2009 is well past its prime drinking window though may show appealing matured complexity if stored in ideal conditions.

Food pairing

Barbecued pork, roast duck, aged cheddar, ratatouille, or hearty vegetarian stews

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 4/10

Standard integrated pest management reported in some years, but no public data for 2009 on energy, water, or packaging innovations. Estate vineyards suggest some local control, but no published sustainability initiatives from this era.

The producer did not claim any organic, biodynamic, or certified sustainable practices for the 2009 vintage. While small estate locations can reduce transport emissions locally, overall sustainability practices were not a marketing focus at this time for C.G. di Arie. No indication of renewable energy, advanced water conservation, or alternative packaging. Typical carbon footprint for standard California Zinfandel in a traditional format.