Introduction:
The 2021 Carlisle Zinfandel Pagani Ranch is a classic expression of old-vine Sonoma zinfandel, offering a blend of intensity and finesse. Crafted from one of Sonoma Valley’s most storied vineyards, this wine showcases deeply concentrated fruit, energetic spice, and remarkable complexity — a benchmark zinfandel that speaks to its historic roots.

Terrior:
Pagani Ranch is located in the heart of Sonoma Valley and is home to vines dating back to the 1880s. Its relatively cool microclimate, influenced by fog and coastal breezes, allows extended hang time, resulting in fully developed flavors balanced by freshness. The gnarled, dry-farmed vines produce low yields with exceptional concentration and layered character.

Appearance:
Medium-dark ruby with garnet hues and excellent clarity. The color hints at the wine’s depth and maturity, while maintaining vibrancy and youthful energy.

Nose:
Highly aromatic and fruit-driven, featuring wild strawberry, black raspberry, ripe plum, and cherry compote. Accents of licorice, black pepper, baking spices, and cedar add layers of complexity, while subtle earthiness evokes the vineyard’s age and character.

Palate:
Full-bodied with supple tannins and a rich, mouth-coating texture. Lush flavors of blackberry and black cherry are supported by undertones of cracked pepper, fennel, and dark chocolate. Well-integrated oak provides polish without masking the vibrant fruit core.

Finish:
Long, bold, and persistent, with a lingering mix of dark fruit, spice, and savory earth. The structure is firm but refined, suggesting excellent aging potential while offering immediate drinking pleasure.

Press:
 
95 points, Jeb Dunnuck:
"A youthful hue of electric ruby with purple highlights, the 2021 Zinfandel Pagani Ranch is highly aromatic and jumps out of the glass with wild strawberries, pink peppercorn, blueberry, and minty herbs. Medium- to full-bodied, with a velvety texture, ripe tannins, and supple richness in its notes of violets, cherry, and cedar, it’s a well-balanced and potent style to drink 2025-2035." (7/21/23)
 
94 points, Wine Spectator:
"Brooding and dark, yet light on its feet, this Zinfandel overflows with flavors and aromas of blackberry and plum, licorice, black pepper, and briar patch, finishing with big but smooth tannins. Drink now through 2032." (6/30/24)

Overall Impression:
The 2021 Carlisle Pagani Ranch Zinfandel delivers powerful yet poised character, with deeply expressive fruit, layered spice, and a sense of history derived from its century-old vines. With its plush palate, savory complexity, and long finish, it stands as one of Sonoma’s definitive zinfandels. Ideal alongside rich, hearty cuisine, or as a cellar-worthy statement bottle.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 15.%
Farming Practices: Sustainably farmed, dry-farmed, old-vine vineyard management
Producer Name: Carlisle Winery & Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Sonoma Valley, California
Grape Varietals: 85% Zinfandel, 15% Alicante Bouschet (field blend)
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: Full-bodied, rich, fruit-forward, age-worthy
Winemaking Techniques: Destemmed, cold soaked, native yeast fermentation, aged in French oak (partial new), unfined and unfiltered
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Standard wine bottle
Closure Style: Cork