Grape

97% Zinfandel and 3% Syrah

Its Origins

The winery’s history began in 1963 when Dr. Donald Edmeades, founded his winery and launched the Edmeades brand in 1972. The Jackson family purchased the winery and its vineyards in 1988. Using grapes grown in Mendocino County’s rugged coastal mountains, Edmeades crafts Zinfandels with distinctive character and personality. The simplicity of the winemaking allows the soil and climate of each site, plus the essential character of the variety, to shine through in every wine. Ben Salazar joined Edmeades as head winemaker in 2012 after working as an enologist and assistant winemaker for other Jackson Family wineries. He is a Zinfandel devotee who appreciates the grape’s historical importance to California. Edmeades is best known for its limited-edition, single-vineyard Zinfandels from some of the oldest and highest sites in Mendocino County, including Perli (planted in the late 1800s), Piffero (planted in 1930 using blasting powder to clear the side of a mountain), Shamrock (2,800 feet above the Pacific Ocean), and Gianoli (planted at 1,900 feet in the 1880s).

What The Critics Say

91/100 Wine Enthusiast

"Concentrated, bright and focused fruit flavors feel shaped by a moderate oak influence in this full-bodied and nicely structured wine. A good amount of tannin wraps the raspberry and blackberry flavors in a firm texture."

Winemaker notes on current 2013 vintage

"Aromas of fresh blackberries, black currants, cedar, and spicy forest hardwoods blend together in the glass. On the palate, blackberry liqueur and plum flavors are complimented by a slightly smoky and meaty character. The wine has ripe, soft tannins, and a mouthwatering acidity"