GB Crane 2021 “El Coco” Proprietary Red, Napa Valley

The 2021 GB Crane  “El Coco” crafted by Dave Phinney is a blend of  Petit Sirah and Old Vine Zinfandel.  Aromatics abound and complete, the “El Coco” is replete with a wide spectrum from boysenberry jam and black plum to candied raspberries and nutmeg. The palate is ripe with dark stone fruits, blueberries, a hint of meatiness, and confectionary orange, akin to mandarin encased “foie gras”.  With just enough tannin to bind the flavors together. The wine finishes elegantly with a salivating savory-ness that lingers.

Winemaker Notes: “The 2021 el Coco opens with aromas of juicy framboise, ripe strawberry, bramble, and musk within a toasted French oak frame. A rich entry of black plum, darker-toned fruits, and crushed gravel is complemented by some bright, fresh Bing cherry and floral notes through the length of the palate and finish. A balancing acidity and pleasing tannins lead to a lifted close of satiating white pepper.Blend: 56% Old Vine Zinfandel, 44% Petite Sirah.”

Dave Phinney: “Life is an endless procession of surprises. The expected rarely occurs and when it does, make sure to erase it from your memory because it’s highly unlikely to repeat itself. That should be the definition of farming and more specifically grape growing. When we first purchased a portion of the iconic Crane vineyard it was mainly because of the four acres of ancient Zinfandel that are a St. Helena landmark. Of course, we knew there was Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and two rows of Merlot as well, but we considered these a bonus if you will. That all changed the first time that we tasted the Cabernet in the fermenter. The young wine was massive. It had huge amounts of brambly black fruits and tons of weight on the mid pallet. The color was an amazingly dark violet hue. The aromas were so sophisticated for a wine of this age. We were dumbfounded…. in a good way. Immediately we began the discussion of what barrels to use, how long to leave it on the skins, etc… etc. It was a pleasurable panic. Grown men acting like a couple of giddy school girls. Eventually, we calmed down and just enjoyed the moment. We welcomed the surprise. Now three years later we welcome you to enjoy this surprise, our surprise. Because none of us know when it may come again.”