2023 Peter Franus - Zinfandel Mount Veeder Brandlin Vineyard (750ml)

Peter Franus founded his eponymous winery in 1987 after completing studies in viticulture and enology, and has spent decades since building a reputation as one of Napa Valley's most respected Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon producers. Franus has never owned a physical winery or vineyard of his own, instead working as one of the valley's original virtual winemakers, sourcing exceptional fruit and crafting it at a shared facility. He has worked with Brandlin Vineyard specifically since 1991, developing an intimate understanding of the site that shows through in every vintage.

Brandlin Vineyard sits on an eastern facing hillside 1,200 feet above the valley floor on Mount Veeder, first planted in the early 1920s by Henry Brandlin and his sons. The vineyard follows an old field blend tradition, interplanting different varieties that are harvested together, and this bottling leans primarily on Zinfandel with smaller amounts of Mourvèdre, Charbono, and Carignane woven in. The vines have never been irrigated beyond natural rainfall, a stress that concentrates flavor and gives the wine its structured, mountain grown character.

This vintage shows floral overtones layered with chiseled red and purple fruit, crushed rock, white pepper, mint, and orange peel. The palate carries blackberry and wild sage alongside firm, supportive tannins typical of the appellation. This wine pairs well with grilled lamb chops, braised short ribs, or a peppery hard cheese.