2023 Hartford Highwire Vineyard Zinfandel

96 Points -

"Zin rarely has this much focus and refinement. Multilayered raspberry and boysenberry flavors are laced with savory anise, dark spices and briar patch as it builds richness and tension toward fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2035." - Tim Fish, Wine Spectator, August 2025

 

 

 

Highwire Old-Vine Zinfandel
$65
QTY

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

2022: 97 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent, April 2024

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

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

2013: 93 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

2012: 95 Points Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

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, 44% new
Time in oak: 9 months
Alcohol: 15.9%
TA: 6.1 g/L
pH: 3.29
Cases produced: 250
Unfined and unfiltered