2022 Zinfandel Papera Ranch

I was so impressed with these 2022s from Carlisle. Proprietor Mike Officer and longtime winemaker Jay Maddox handled the rigors of the vintage well, turning out wines that impress with their energy and vibrancy. Officer cited lessons learned in 2010 regarding keeping grapes well-shaded as pivotal to navigating the rigors of the growing season. A brief spell of rain on 9/17 was a help for later-ripening sites. When all was said and done, the harvest period was very condensed. About 65% of the total crop came in within a few days. I must admit, this tasting was a little bittersweet. Vinous readers may know that Officer has decided to retire and wind down Carlisle over the next few years. Throughout his career, Officer has played a pivotal role in efforts by a handful of producers to recognize, catalog and champion the great, historic sites throughout Sonoma County. I hope there is a way that important contribution can be memorialized for future generations.