Seghesio Vineyards
BY W. PETER HOYNE
In 1886 Edorado Seghesio left his home and family vineyards in Piedmonte, Italy, in search of his dreams in America. After finding his life-long love, Angela, while working at Swiss Colony in Sonoma County, the couple purchased 56 acres of vineyard property in Alexander Valley and planted it to Zinfandel. This parcel known as "Home Ranch" has survived as one of the oldest Zinfandel vineyards in California. The winery was completed in 1902 and with the purchase of additional land, the Seghesio's were able to plant native Italian varietals of Sangiovese, Canielao Nero, Trebbiano, and Malvesia. In the late 1980's, the family decided to redirect their vision and focus on quality, securing the youthful talent of fourth generation winemaker Ted Seghesio and his cousin, Peter. Total production fell from 130,000 cases to 30,000 with a change to disciplined vineyard practices and the almost exclusive use of estate grown grapes. Although their heritage can be seen through the Italian varietals they produce, including a big brother Super Tuscan named "Omaggio", their legacy is defined by their ability to craft exquisite, world-class Zinfandels that can dominate the competition.
1. 2008 Seghesio Home Ranch Zinfandel | Alexander Valley, California
This wine is produced from oldest vineyards surrounding the Seghesio family estate and dates back to the first plantings by Edorado in 1895. These deeply rooted vines offer a full spectrum of flavors and nuances not found in many wines. The opaque color reveals exaggerated levels of plump, mouth-filling fruit layered with cream along with sensational purity in the finish. This is an impressive example of the attributes of old vine fruit. | About: $35
2. 2009 Seghesio Pinot Grigio | Sonoma County, California
These grapes are grown in the well-drained soils of Russian River Valley and Dry Creek regions of Northern Sonoma where the cool, foggy mornings allow the wine to retain its vibrant acidity. Atypical of the simple Italian renditions of Pinot Grigio, this wine has plenty of substance with overtones of pear and stone fruit elements along with a touch of vibrant acidity in the finish. | About: $20
3. 2009 Seghesio Arnes | Alexander Valley, California
The origin of this white wine dates back to the late 13th century from the hills of Roero in northern Italy's Piedmonte region. Because of the challenging nature of this grape in the vineyard, it was given the name of Arneis meaning "little rascal." This white wine has a soft yellow hue that opens to exotic aromas of red citrus fruits and tangerines. On the palate there are white peach elements integrated with yellow plums and a pineapple zest. Generous in overall texture yet refreshing and still light on its feet. | About: $20
4. 2008 Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel | Sonoma County, California
This is the workhorse from the Seghesio Zinfandel portfolio and it's popularity is based on the fact that it always over delivers for the price. This wine is produced with some estate fruit coming from the 100-year-old-plus vineyards of San Lorenzo and Home Ranch vineyards. The wine has a dark purple color that draws you into an explosive cuvee of sweet kirsch, red licorice, roasted herbs and cedar spice that layer across your palate. A forward Zin flavor with plenty of glycerol and dark sweet cherries. | About: $25