The blend started by barrel sampling through 16 different lots of Zinfandel and choosing two that were exemplary of the varietal and vintage. The Costa Zin was selected for its acidity, red fruit and spicy pepper with an elegant finish. The Burney Mettler was the opposite - big dark fruit with firm tannins and bold structure. The wines were then blended equally. In the cellar, Klinker Brick added their barrel fermented Syrah to bring additional depth and toasty vanilla aromas. Cabernet was then incorporated, which encouraged the reemergence of dark fruits and round tannins. Finally, Petite Sirah was added to enhance color and the structure integrity of the blend as well as give the wine aromas of blueberries with a hint of licorice.
