For decades, Harold Varozza operated the ranch after his father passed, selling the grapes to local wineries. In 1999, Harold’s son Jack and Jack’s wife Dianna took over the ranch and now produce estate grown wines under their own label. (www.varozzavineyards.com)

While Jack and Dianna grow several varieties including Zinfandel, their winery does not produce a Zinfandel wine. In 2007, an agreement was worked out for Biale to make Zinfandel from the Varozza Vineyard property.

In the exact heart of Napa Valley just north of St. Helena on Pratt Avenue and next to the restored old winery, this is an ideal spot for growing grapes – especially Zinfandel. Planted on stony, alluvial soils between York Creek and the Napa River, the older and younger vines here produce wines that are a little darker with more black fruit than typical of St. Helena, with great textural feel and firm structure.

The 2008 Varozza is a complete wine: flavor-driven, firm, and balanced. Expressive black berry, plum, and stone fruits, toasty spices, and mineral scents. Very seductive, this could be the Zin of the vintage.

Can be cellared 4-5 years.