Kunde Estate Zinfandel 2016

Cellar for up to 8 years. No need to decant before serving.

The historic Kunde estate was first planted with vines in 1879 by the then-owner John Drummond who actually brought in prized cuttings from the prestigious Bordeaux estates of Chateau Margaux and Chateau Lafite-Rothschild. In 1904 the property was purchased by German emigrant Louis Kunde, and five generations later it’s remarkably still in the hands of the same family.

Although Kunde has had it’s ups and downs, including World War II when two of the Kunde sons were drafted up to fight and the winery had to close, today it’s stronger than ever thanks to the family’s deep commitment to sustainability and preserving the land for future generations. Their estate-grown Zinfandel is a great example of their house style and is made from grapes grown on Sonoma hillsides, ensuring luscious fruit flavours balanced by plenty of freshness and a distinctive aromatic black pepper spice.

Cassis, blackberry, and dark cherry dominate on the nose, while the first sip reveals a punchy full body, firm tannins, and a luscious dark fruit core that lingers on the finish. Although capable of ageing for a few more years, this Zinfandel is very approachable right now and is best enjoyed with rich dishes like beef stews, braised ribs, or a prime ribeye steak.