2022 Decoy - Zinfandel Sonoma (750ml)

Dan and Margaret Duckhorn founded Duckhorn Vineyards in Napa Valley in 1976 and launched Decoy in 1985 as its approachable sister label. Dan was a serious collector of wooden duck decoys, and he liked the idea of an affordable but well-made wine to lure people in. Dan reportedly called the first Decoy red blend a “Tuesday night wine.” The brand has since grown into a full range of varietal wines, with its own Ridgeline and Brownell estate vineyards in Sonoma’s Alexander Valley. Winemaker Dana Epperson currently leads the program.

This Sonoma County Zinfandel is blended with a little Petite Sirah and Carignan, about 80 percent Zinfandel, 16 percent Petite Sirah, and 4 percent Carignan. The Petite Sirah adds color and structure, and the Carignan adds bright acidity. Harvest started early in 2022. Yields were low, and warm weather in late July and early August pushed the grapes to full ripeness across Decoy’s vineyard sources.

The wine opens with wild blueberry, blackberry, plum, and vanilla, along with a touch of freshly cracked white pepper. On the palate, black cherry and dark chocolate lead to a hint of violets, carried by smooth tannins and lively acidity. It’s an easygoing California red that goes well with barbecue, grilled lamb kebabs, burgers, or pizza.