Outpost Wines, Zinfandel, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California, 2023

Overview of the Wine
Outpost was established in 1998, yet our history of grape growing on Howell Mountain dates back to the mid-1800s. Multiple generations were drawn to this vineyard's rocky red soil, high altitude, sunny western exposure and gentle cooling breezes where we have continued to produce fruit of exceptional intensity and richness, with the distinctive spicy character, unique to our terroir, that is a particular characteristic of the wines of Outpost.

We feel privileged to farm 44-acres of truly exceptional mountain terroir. The Estate Vineyard is just under 19-acres planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Grenache. Our 9-acre True Vineyard located just a few hundred feet below the Estate property is composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. A new development added in 2021, will provide 16-acres of additional vines and has been meticulously replanted to match the exact clones and rootstock that we know best.

At Outpost, we take our role as stewards of the land very seriously, employing sustainable farming practices at every stage of cultivation. Over the years, we have updated our irrigation systems to limit water waste and installed new wind machines to protect several blocks from potential frost. We have also completed our Carbon Farm Plan to make certain we are doing our part for carbon neutrality.

Sustainable.

Winemaker
Thomas Rivers Brow

Grape / Blend
Zinfandel

Origin
Howell Mountain, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
2023 proved to be a stellar vintage for the entire Napa Valley, Howell Mountain in particular. Abundant winter rainfall replenished water reserves, and a cool spring extended budbreak while promoting vigorous vine growth. Although veraison progressed slowly across the valley, the higher elevations of Outpost and True Vineyard, above the fog line, ensured steady and uniform ripening. With no major weather extremes, harvest timing could be carefully controlled, resulting in generally average to above-average yields and outstanding fruit quality. The vintage is marked by dense color, excellent concentration, bright acidity, and finely polished tannins, producing wines that clearly reflect both their vineyards and this remarkable year.

95 Points - Wine Advocate
Outpost's 2023 Zinfandel marries ripe cherries with a wiry-briary character on the nose, but for now, this full-bodied wine is more complex on the palate, where the supple tannins are buttressed by notions of dried spices and cracked pepper on the lingering finish.

94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
Based on 100% Zinfandel and aged 20 months in French oak, the 2023 Zinfandel offers darker plums, flowery incense, sandalwood, and peppery nuances in a medium to full-bodied profile. It has a pure, layered, seamless mouthfeel with integrated acidity and sweet tannins. This incredibly complex, satisfying, and nuanced Zinfandel is hard to resist and will keep for 15 years. Drink 2025-2040. 

93 Points - James Suckling
A classic zinfandel with deeply scented aromas of black currants, spices, dark chocolate, dried herbs and crushed stones. The palate is textural and rounded, with firmly framed yet refined tannins and a plush mouthfeel. There’s good balance of texture and structure, with a fair amount of alcohol. Drink or hold. 

Product size: 750ml