96 Points -
"I really love the perfume of the 2021 Zinfandel Highwire Vineyard, which has the scent of walking into the forest after a fresh rainfall. Pouring a saturated ruby-purple, notes of blackberry, candied raspberry, and forest herbs are followed by a medium to full-bodied red with a bit more linear and fresh spine of acidity. It packs in compelling structure, with fine tannins and a brightness to the fruit that is long on the palate, revealing notes of fresh peach, dusty soils, and sweet herbs. This may be my favorite of these Zinfandel offerings from Hartford." - Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2023
Tasting Notes
Consistently distinctive cracked white pepper nuances differentiate the Highwire single-vineyard Zinfandel from our other Zinfandel bottlings. Concentrated licorice, blackberry, and boysenberry fruit aromas and flavors are another signature of this vineyard, which complements the dark chocolate and sappy dark fruit nuances that linger in the youthful finish.
Historic Acclaim
2021: 96 Points, Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2023
2021: 94 Points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator, June 2023
2019: 96 Points, Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
2019: 94 Points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator
2019: 94 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com
2018: 96 Points, Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
2018: 95+ Points, Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2017: 95 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2016: 97 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2015: 96 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2014: 96 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2014: 93+ Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous
2013: 93 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
2013: 93+ Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous
2012: 95 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
2012: 92 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
2011: 92 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
2011: 91 Points International Wine Review
2010: 93 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
2010 : 92 Points International Wine Review
2009: 94 Points The Wine Spectator
2009: 94 Points International Wine Review
2009: 95 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
2008: 94 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
2007: 96 Points The Wine Enthusiast
2007: 92 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
2006: 90 Points, International Wine Review
Vineyard & Vintage Character
Over 100 years old, the Highwire Vineyard takes its name from the vineyard’s trellising systems: half of the parcel is head-trained and half is trained on a high wire trellis strung between each vine. This trellising method was implemented by the previous vineyard owner, Lloyd and Dee Chelli to permit greater sun exposure and promote even ripening. Both sections of the vineyard are harvested and aged separately to ensure that we capture all characteristics of the Highwire Vineyard Zinfandel. Cool nights in the Russian River Valley help retain bright acidity, while double sorting removes less ripe berries and raisins, retaining a fresh fruit focus.
The Chelli family cares deeply for the old vines behind their home. Their dedicated approach to farming is reflected in the character of the wine produced from their vineyard. Hartford Family Winery purchased the Highwire Vineyard from the Chelli’s in 2018, and Lloyd and Dee still live on the property and watch over this historic vineyard every day!
Wine Details
Oak: 100% French oak, 50% new
Time in oak: 9 months
Alcohol: 15.6%
TA: 6.6 g/L
pH: 3.44
Cases produced: 325
Unfined and unfiltered