Saldo Zinfandel is a wine that sources its grapes from various prestigious Zinfandel regions and American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in California. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring and experiencing these regions firsthand, and I can confidently say that the grapes used in Saldo Zinfandel come from some of the best vineyards in the state.
One of the regions where Saldo sources its grapes is the Dry Creek AVA. Known for its warm climate and gravelly soil, Dry Creek is home to some of the oldest Zinfandel vines in California. These old vines produce grapes with concentrated flavors and structured tannins, resulting in wines of exceptional quality and depth. I have personally tasted Zinfandels from Dry Creek, and they never fail to impress with their rich, ripe fruit flavors and hints of spice.
Another region that contributes to the Saldo Zinfandel blend is the Sierra Foothills AVA. Situated in the eastern part of California, this region is known for its rugged terrain and diverse microclimates. The Zinfandel grapes grown here benefit from the warm days and cool nights, which allow for slow and even ripening. The resulting wines showcase a balance of fruitiness and acidity, with flavors ranging from dark berries to black pepper. I have visited the Sierra Foothills and witnessed firsthand the dedication of the winemakers and growers in this region, who work tirelessly to produce exceptional Zinfandels.
Sonoma Valley is another AVA that contributes to the Saldo Zinfandel blend. This region is known for its cool climate, which allows for a longer growing season and the development of complex flavors in the grapes. The Zinfandels from Sonoma Valley often exhibit notes of dark cherry, blackberry, and baking spices. I have had the pleasure of visiting Sonoma Valley during harvest season, and the aroma of ripe Zinfandel grapes in the air is something I will never forget.
The Talmage Bench in Mendocino is another region that Saldo sources its grapes from. Situated in the northern part of California, this area benefits from the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean. The Zinfandel grapes grown here develop intense flavors and aromas while retaining bright acidity. The wines from Talmage Bench often showcase notes of red fruit, floral undertones, and a touch of earthiness. I have had the opportunity to taste Zinfandels from this region, and they are always a delight with their vibrant and complex profiles.
Lodi, known as the “Zinfandel Capital of the World,” is another important source of grapes for Saldo Zinfandel. This region is characterized by its warm climate and sandy soils, which result in Zinfandels with ripe fruit flavors, velvety textures, and a touch of spice. I have attended a Zinfandel festival in Lodi, where I had the chance to taste a wide range of Zinfandels and appreciate the diversity and quality of the wines produced in this region.
Lastly, Saldo also sources grapes from the Moon Mountain District of Sonoma County. This mountainous region is known for its volcanic soils and steep slopes, which provide excellent drainage and stress to the vines. The resulting Zinfandels are often bold and concentrated, with flavors of dark fruit, cocoa, and a hint of smokiness. I have hiked through the vineyards of the Moon Mountain District and witnessed the challenges faced by the winemakers in cultivating grapes in such a rugged terrain, but the end result is truly remarkable.
Saldo Zinfandel sources its grapes from a variety of renowned Zinfandel regions and AVAs in California, including Dry Creek, Sierra Foothills, Sonoma Valley, The Talmage Bench in Mendocino, Lodi, and the Moon Mountain District of Sonoma County. Each of these regions brings its unique characteristics and terroir to the blend, resulting in a wine that showcases the best of California Zinfandel.