At a glance

Producer

Seghesio Family Vineyards

Region

Sonoma County, California, USA

Grape variety

Zinfandel (with small amounts of Petite Sirah and Carignane)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45–$70 USD per 750ml bottle (auction and retail as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Dried blackberry, raspberry, plum, hints of spice (clove, pepper), leather, cocoa, vanilla, and subtle earthiness. Tertiary notes from aging: dried herbs, tobacco, forest floor.

Evolution: Fruit moved from vibrant and jammy to dried/compote style. Tannins and oak now fully integrated. Tertiary notes have surfaced.

At peak: Best expression between 2016–2021; drinking now shows more maturity and subtlety, less primary fruit.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium, rounded and integrated

Alcohol

High (typically 14.5–15.5%)

Aging potential

10–15 years from vintage; cellaring beyond 2025 is not recommended

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2015 to 2021

Optimal window

2014 to 2023

Current status

Nearing end of optimal drinking window; tastes mature but not yet faded.

Current condition

Fully mature, tertiary notes emerging, can still be very enjoyable if well cellared.

Old Vine Zinfandel from Seghesio typically peaks between 5–10 years after vintage. The 2010 has benefited from concentrated fruit and robust structure, but as with most Zinfandel, can lose charm if cellared past 15 years. Drink soon for best experience.

Food pairing

Grilled meats (lamb, pork, sausages), barbecue, roasted game, hard cheeses, and dishes with smoky or spicy notes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine is 15 years old, which allows for some sediment to have formed, and decanting will help to aerate the medium-bodied Zinfandel, enhancing its rounded flavors and aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Seghesio employs sustainable farming practices, including cover cropping, minimal pesticide use, water conservation efforts (drip irrigation, soil moisture sensors), and some renewable energy at winery. Packaging is standard, not lightweight or carbon minimized.

Seghesio has made strides in sustainable farming within Sonoma, implementing water and energy conservation as well as integrated pest management. However, it lacks third-party certifications like organic or biodynamic for this bottling and still uses standard packaging. The carbon footprint is typical for a premium California wine, heightened when exported. Overall, above average but not a leader in industry sustainability.