Introduction: Shannon Family of Wines was founded in 1996 by Clay Shannon, a farmer-first maverick who saw potential in the rugged, high-altitude volcanic terrain of Lake County where others saw only challenges. The estate spans over 2,000 acres of mountain property, with 1,000 acres now converted to regenerative organic farming under "Project Ovis" — a pioneering system in which a permanent herd of nearly 1,000 sheep manages cover crops, removes leaf canopy, eliminates herbicide use, and naturally fertilizes the soil year-round. Shannon Family earned the California Green Medal Environment Award in 2021 and is one of the largest certified organic mountain vineyards in the country. The High Elevation Zinfandel draws fruit from estate vineyards across three Lake County AVAs — High Valley, Red Hills, and Big Valley — each contributing distinct qualities to the blend.

Terroir: At elevations peaking at 2,300 feet in the Mayacamas Mountains overlooking Clear Lake, the vineyards grow in ancient volcanic soils — red, well-drained, and mineral-rich — that concentrate flavor and add a characteristic spice and mineral depth to the wines. Hot summer days and significantly cooler nights create a diurnal temperature swing that preserves natural acidity and aromatic complexity. High Valley contributes bold backbone and structure; Red Hills adds generous, ripe fruit character; Big Valley provides firm tannins and mineral balance.

Appearance: Deep ruby-red with a vivid purple core — concentrated and youthful.

Nose: Ripe plum, blackberry, and dark cherry lead, layered with allspice, black pepper, vanilla, and a hint of toasted oak. The volcanic soils contribute a distinctive earthy, mineral undercurrent that anchors the generous fruit aromatics.

Palate: Full-bodied and bold, with ripe dark fruit — blackberry, plum, and cherry — carrying the mid-palate alongside spicy pepper and cocoa notes. Moderate, well-integrated tannins and natural acidity from the high-elevation sites provide structure and balance. Aged 75% in stainless steel and 25% in second- and third-use French oak barrels (300L) for 6 months, the oak is present but supportive rather than dominant, allowing the mountain fruit to take center stage.

Finish: Long and warm, with lingering dark fruit, pepper, and a subtle vanilla fade.

Food Pairings:
🥩 Meat: BBQ ribs, grilled lamb chops, or a hearty beef and mushroom ragù.
🥦 Vegetarian: Smoky black bean chili, roasted eggplant with tomato sauce, or wild mushroom pasta.
🧀 Charcuterie Board: Aged cheddar, smoked gouda, spiced salami, Castelvetrano olives, and candied walnuts.

Overall Impression: A bold, character-driven Lake County Zinfandel from one of California's most forward-thinking sustainable estates — rich mountain fruit, volcanic terroir, and a farming story that genuinely sets it apart. Great value for the quality and depth it delivers. Serve at 62–65°F; drink now through 2027.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: 100% certified organic mountain estate vineyards; Project Ovis regenerative farming system with year-round sheep herd; no herbicides; certified California Sustainable Winegrowing; California Green Medal Environment Award 2021 Producer Name: Shannon Ridge / Shannon Family of Wines (Clay Shannon, founder)
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Lake County AVA, California (High Valley, Red Hills, and Big Valley sub-appellations; elevations to 2,300 feet)
Grape Varietals: Zinfandel  
Vintage:2022
Wine Style: Dry Red — Full-bodied, with the bold dark fruit, spice, and mountain mineral character that distinguishes high-elevation Lake County Zinfandel from warmer, lower-altitude expressions. More structured and food-worthy than a jammy, flat-plains Zin, with genuine aging potential.
Winemaking Techniques: Estate fruit from three Lake County AVAs; 75% fermented and aged in stainless steel; 25% aged 6 months in second- and third-use French oak 300L barrels; blended prior to bottling
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style:Cork (verify on bottle)