Dry Creek Vineyards founder, David S. Stare, was recently named a “Wine Legend” by “Wine Enthusiast Magazine”. David graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a degree in civil engineering and completed his MBA at Northwestern. Later while living in Germany, he traveled to wineries and developed an interest in wine. Upon returning to Boston, he would advance his interest in wine by taking a course in wine appreciation. In the 1970’s, David spent time in France and became enamored with their wines, especially those from the Loire Valley and Bordeaux. Upon returning, he had desired to establish a winery in France, but instead directed his attention to California. He enrolled in winemaking classes at UC Davis and scoured the California countryside in search of land.

The vineyard for this “Old Vine” Zinfandel dates back 100 years. It is a blend of 77% Zinfandel, 20% Petit Sirah and 10% Alicante Bouschet, aged for 14 months in French, Hungarian and American Oak. This classic Dry Creek Zinfandel is true to its origin. The lively garnet color opens with aromas of flowery incense and elements of raspberry coulis and pomegranate fruit. Intertwined in this fresh core is an assortment of fruitcake and baking spices along with ripe silky tannins. It all leads to a fresh and inviting finish.

By W Peter Hoyne