Dr. Crane, realizing the similarity of conditions to other great wine regions, was the first in the valley (1861!) to plant European varieties in his pioneering efforts to produce great wine.

The Salvestrin Family (www.salvestrinwinery. com) purchased the property from Dr. Crane’s heirs in 1932 and have lovingly maintained the oldest vines. They have let Biale make the wine from this historic site since 1995.

Gentle, elegant, and ethereal in style, the Zinfandel from these old vines reflects the convergence of these perfect conditions. In the 2008 vintage you will notice with some aeration the typical Crane minerals interspersed with berries and stone fruits, zesty spices, tea leaf, and toasty vanilla character.

Approachable now, this Zin will benefit from 3-4 years of disciplined patience.