Nichelini

We asked Joe to crack us his biggest smile…This is what we got!

Okay, so maybe Joe Nichelini is all business, but you have to understand, this guy takes his grape growing seriously (and we can certainly see why). You see, Joe is responsible for overseeing his family's Nichelini Vineyards in Napa's Chiles Valley appellation.

His very own Great Grandfather Anton, the man who started Nichelini Grape Growing in the 1880s, planted those Zinfandel vines you see behind him. Can you say legacy? Yes, Joe isn't about to let these grapes falter...not on his watch. Joe's head-trained; dry-farmed beauties produce peppery notes and blackberry flavors that make everyone smile year after year. (Even Joe. You just have to watch for it.)

Sadly, there came a time to move on and our beloved Petite Sirah and Zinfandel vines are now all gone. Worry not, we perfectly preserved this precious site in our 2012 bottlings. If you're lucky enough to find some, grab 'em!

Nestled 1,000 feet above sea level in the Vaca Mountains, the Nichelini vineyard is slightly protected from the strong winds and chilling cold that affects much of Chiles Valley. The plantings here were some of the oldest; freestanding and head-pruned in Pleasanton and Yolo loam soils. Enjoying a more moderate climate into fall, fruit is able to slowly develop rich fruit flavors.

Town: St. Helena

Region: Napa Valley

Appellation: Chiles Valley

Wines: Petite Sirah and Zinfandel