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What We Say 2008 Zig Zag Chardonnay
QPR ALERT:
Today’s wine represents an outstanding value, easily earning it this special QPR (Quality to Price Ratio) Alert.
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Mission Codename: High Marks
Operative: Agent Red
Objective: In time for Springtime sipping, entertaining and enjoyment, send Agent Red in search of a delicious Mendocino County Chardonnay. Procure an ample allocation for our thirsty Operatives.
Mission Status: Accomplished!
Current Winery: Mendocino Wine Company
Wine Subject: 2008 Zig Zag Chard – Mendocino County Chardonnay
Winemaker:
Backgrounder: The Mendocino AVA, located along the Russian River and highway 101 north of Sonoma County is where the grapes for this delicious Cabernet Sauvignon were grown. The actual AVA is centered between Hopland and Ukiah in the southern third of the county and are heavily influenced by the climate which is regulated by the mountain ridges that surround the upper Russian River. The deep alluvial and gravelly loam soils also contribute to the flavor profile of the grapes grown in the region. Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel are the primary grapes grown here.
Wine Spies Tasting Profile:
Look – Lightest golden hues, with glinting edges that catch the light when you spin the wine. When the wine settles, tall, chubby columns fall slowly down the glass wall.
Smell – Hawthorn, acacia, honeysuckle and sweet lemon zest jump from the glass. White peach, pineapple, green apple and softly spiced oak follow closely.
Feel – Very soft and smooth on entry, the wine glides quickly across the palate. After a few moments, a very soft dryness appears at the edges of the palate, slowly spreading inward and eventually spreading to the lips and cheeks.
Taste – Soft and smooth, flavors of sweet lemon curd, white flowers, white peach, pineapple and sweet key lime.
Finish – Medium in length, with tart fruit yielding to sweet. At the end, flint, white flowers and a hint of white pepper persist.
Conclusion – This easy-drinking 2008 Zig Zag Chard is a budget-minded wine, from our friends at Mendocino Wine Company (whose wines we’ve featured in the past), that is the sort that one stocks up on. This is great wine for your springtime parties, barbecues, picnics or just some lazy weekend sipping. Soft and flavorful, with a light body and an easy structure, this is a less complex wine than we have come to enjoy from Mendocino, but it still has that characteristic Mendo fruit quality that we have tasted in previous Mendocino Chardonnay offerings. So, dear Operative, if you are looking for a wine for your next soiree, or one to keep on hand for those white wine drinkers in your life, you should consider picking up a case or two – before we run out.
What the Winery Says
Mendocino Wine Company
About This Wine:
Mendocino County, where the roads zig zag through the coastal mountains. Sustainability is a way of life here: we’re GMO free and bio-diesel friendly. You can leave your cell phone in Napa.
Zig Zag Chardonnay expresses Mendocino County’s style with crisp flavors of apple and pear followed by a tropical fruit finish. Certain to light up an evening, it goes well with everything from roasted chicken to fish tacos. Enjoy with good friends and great music.
About The Winery:
By April 2004 the Mendocino Wine Co. had formed and purchased Parducci Wine Cellars, Mendocino’s oldest winery. Respecting the heritage of Parducci and the central role the winery has played in the development of Mendocino County’s wine industry, the new owners created a strategy to build on Parducci’s strengths and successes, especially its people. The partners are fully committed to the well-being of Mendocino County – the land, growers, employees and the community as a whole.
These goals are reflected in their sustainability E3 action plan: “economics, environment and social equity.” “We believe that it’s time for business to lead the transformation to sustainable practices,” says Tom Thornhill. “We need to reconnect to what’s important and become a force for change. Moreover, that doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or profitability.”
The partners and their employees are immersed in responsible land stewardship, sustainable viticulture and business practices that yield superior grapes while preserving the environment and supporting local farmers.
Technical Analysis:
Varietals: Chardonnay
*Cooperage:
TA: 0.54
pH: 3.44
Region: Mendocino County
Alcohol: 13.5%
