John Haw has been making wine since 1972 and his career includes stints at Sokol Blosser and Maryhill Winery among others, before joining owner Brad Gearhart over a decade ago. Applying careful vineyard selection, he coaxes distinctive site characteristics into the wines, focusing on red Bordeaux varietals like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, but also including Syrah and Zinfandel. The Zinfandel is grown just down the drive from the winery.
Nose: Alluring aromas of dusty cocoam forest floor, and red and black berries.
Taste: Elegant in structure, this monstrous dense Zinfandel is zesty and vibrant, exuding towering flavors of black cherry, raspberry and red currants that meld with cocoa powder, molasses and savory herbs. The lengthy finish is laser beam focused with firm, gripping tannins.
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding
Alcohol: 14.5%
Website: www.jacobwilliamswinery.com