Seghesio Cortina Zinfandel 2019

Region and Vineyards

The Dry Creek Valley, part of Sonoma County, California, is renowned for producing some of the finest Zinfandels in the world. The grapes for the 2019 Cortina Zinfandel are sourced primarily from Chen’s Vineyard, planted in 1972 by the Seghesio family. These old vines, now nearly 50 years old, are rooted in Cortina gravelly loam soils, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the wine’s complexity and minerality.

The vineyards benefit from the valley’s unique climate, with morning fog and cool afternoon breezes that extend the growing season. This allows the grapes to achieve full ripeness while maintaining vibrant acidity and developing intricate layers of flavor.

Winemaking

The 2019 vintage began with a wet winter and spring, which replenished the soil and encouraged healthy vine growth. Moderate temperatures throughout the summer, combined with minimal irrigation, ensured gradual ripening and allowed for a methodical harvest between September 24 and October 14.

At the winery, the grapes were hand-picked and sorted, then gently destemmed and transferred to small open-top fermenters without pumping. Pneumatic punchdowns were used to gently extract color and tannins during the 7–10 days of fermentation on skins. The free-run juice was drained, settled briefly, and transferred to barrels for malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged for 15 months in 95% French oak (13% new) and 5% neutral American oak, resulting in a refined and balanced profile.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red.
• Aroma: Lilac, wild blueberry tart, cedar, and moss create a vibrant and aromatic bouquet.
• Palate: Bright acidity leads to flavors of vibrant blue fruit and a touch of white pepper, balanced by soft tannins. The wine’s long, elegant finish showcases its polished structure.

Did you know?

The Cortina gravelly loam soils, after which this wine is named, are among the most sought-after soil types in the Dry Creek Valley for Zinfandel. These soils encourage deep root growth and promote excellent drainage, contributing to the wine’s bright fruit and balanced minerality.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Rack of lamb with rosemary and garlic: The wine’s berry and spice notes complement the savory richness of lamb.
• Barbecue ribs with a tangy sauce: The acidity and bright fruit flavors cut through the smoky and sweet elements of the dish.
• Wild mushroom risotto: The earthy notes of mushrooms enhance the subtle spice and minerality of the wine.
• Aged cheddar cheese: The wine’s vibrant fruit and soft tannins pair beautifully with the sharpness and creaminess of cheddar.

History of Seghesio Family Vineyards

The history of Seghesio Family Vineyards began in 1895, when Edoardo Seghesio, an Italian immigrant from Piedmont, planted his first Zinfandel vines at the Home Ranch Vineyard in Alexander Valley. Edoardo’s ambition was to bring the robust winemaking traditions of Italy to California’s fertile soils. His efforts laid the foundation for the family’s legacy of producing high-quality wines, particularly Zinfandel.

During Prohibition, the family adapted by producing sacramental and table wines, preserving the vineyards through challenging times. In the mid-20th century, Edoardo’s son, Angelo Seghesio, expanded the winery's holdings and introduced innovative vineyard techniques. By the 1990s, Seghesio was recognized as one of Sonoma’s premier Zinfandel producers, with their old-vine vineyards producing wines of exceptional character and depth.

Today, under the stewardship of the fourth and fifth generations, the Seghesio family combines their heritage with sustainable practices, ensuring the vineyards continue to thrive. The winery’s inclusion in the Crimson Wine Group since 2011 has enabled continued growth while maintaining its family values and traditions.

Region and Vineyards

Seghesio’s vineyards span 300+ acres across Sonoma County, encompassing appellations such as Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley. These regions provide a range of microclimates and soils that allow for a diverse portfolio of wines, though Zinfandel remains the flagship.

The historic Home Ranch Vineyard in Alexander Valley is the heart of Seghesio’s identity. Planted in 1895, it features some of the oldest Zinfandel vines in California, still producing small, concentrated yields with remarkable intensity. The Montafi Vineyard in Russian River Valley, planted with 94-year-old Zinfandel vines, further demonstrates Seghesio’s commitment to preserving heritage sites.

The terroirs range from the gravelly loam soils of Dry Creek Valley, which provide excellent drainage, to volcanic and sandy soils in other regions, each contributing unique characteristics to the wines. The cool Pacific breezes temper the heat, resulting in wines that balance ripe fruit with refreshing acidity.

Sustainability is integral to Seghesio’s approach, with all vineyards Certified Sustainable. Practices include planting cover crops, eliminating synthetic herbicides like glyphosate, and fostering biodiversity through natural predator habitats.

Wine Range

Seghesio Family Vineyards offers a diverse portfolio of wines, including:

• Seghesio Sonoma Chardonnay: A modern take on California Chardonnay, offering vibrant acidity, rich citrus and stone fruit flavors, and a hint of oak for added complexity.
• Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel: A flagship wine showcasing the bold and juicy character of Sonoma Zinfandel, with wild blackberry, savory spices, and a long, persistent finish.
• Seghesio Old Vines Zinfandel: Made from vines averaging 75 years of age, this wine delivers concentrated wild berry flavors, subtle spices, and velvety tannins, reflecting the power and elegance of old vines.
• Seghesio Cortina Zinfandel: A Dry Creek Valley classic with vibrant blue fruit, delicate spices, and an elegant structure, showcasing the gravelly loam soils that define the vineyard’s terroir.

Did you know?

Seghesio Family Vineyards has been instrumental in preserving California’s old-vine Zinfandel vineyards, ensuring these historic vines remain productive for future generations. Their focus on Zinfandel has helped elevate its status, showcasing the variety as one of the most iconic expressions of Sonoma terroir.