Bella 2021 Zinfandel “Lily Hill” Dry Creek, Sonoma

The 2021 vintage of Bella Lily Hill is sourced from Bella’s 1.2-acre-old vine “Lily Hill Estate” vineyard planted in 1915.  This stunning Zinfandel release draws together a beautiful balance of bold black and red stone fruit and a hint of subtle spiciness.  An elegant bouquet of brambly raspberries, chocolate, and plum underscores the classic style of this great estate.  The palate delivers cocoa and candied fruit, finishing with savory qualities, juicy acidity, and soft silky tannins.  Only 6 barrels of this wine were produced!

Tasting Notes: With a pretty floral nose of dark ripe fruit, the 2021 Lily Hill Zinfandel exhibits classic and lively Dry Creek flavors of blackberries, black cherries, licorice, and exotic spices. The wine has a silky texture with a full mouthfeel, intertwined with a smoky finish. The incorporation of a small amount of Petite Sirah pushes the finish into rich, substantial length.

Winery Notes: This is a beautifully structured expression of Dry Creek Valley zinfandel with alluring aromas of ripe strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, cinnamon and baking spices. The luxurious, bright fruit continues on the broad, mouth-filling palate, gliding to a long, silky finish with hints of clove and forest floor.

Wine Review Online 95 Points:  “This estate site contains 8 blocks of Zinfandel with different ages, oldest 95 years or so, and Winemaker Joe Healy utilized eight different coopers of French, Hungarian and American oak, typically toasted to medium-plus.  A bright mix of red berries, spice, and mixed peppercorns on the nose and in the mouth, delivered with power on the palate, but without overweight tendencies. Great tannin structure and a long finish that is just starting to unwind. Great juice!”