BigHammerWines.com

The story begins decades ago with a single sip of late-harvest Riesling that changed the course of a young man’s life. What followed was obsession—reading, collecting, teaching wine appreciation—then five gallons of Zinfandel fermenting in a kitchen. That humble experiment grew into barrels, then “garage” vintages winning gold medals, and eventually into one of Sonoma County’s most revered small estates dedicated to old vines and uncompromising craft.

By the early 2000s, joined by a U.C. Davis–trained enologist with honors, the project evolved from passion to precision. Analytical rigor met artistic instinct. Corporate careers were left behind. The focus became singular: source historic vineyards planted in the late 1800s and early 1900s and bottle them with absolute integrity.

This wine comes from one of those vineyards.

Planted in 1934 in the coveted Piner-Olivet neighborhood of the Russian River Valley, these vines run deep in Huichica loam soils, delivering remarkable consistency and intensity. Yields were modest. Harvest came just ahead of a September heat spike—timing that preserved freshness and structure.

The fruit was divided across multiple fermentation tanks, each handled slightly differently to expand the aromatic spectrum. Only the most compelling lots earned a place in the final blend.

Unfined.
Unfiltered.
Nothing cosmetic. Nothing diluted.

In the glass, expect explosive black raspberry, crushed plum, briar spice, and a savory edge carried by polished tannins and vibrant acidity. It is powerful, yes—but disciplined. Concentrated—but balanced. A wine built from old vines and serious intent.

The previous vintage from this estate landed on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list.

If you love benchmark Russian River Valley Zinfandel from historic vines, this is a bottle you want in your cellar.