Great Chardonnay, old vine Zinfandel, and Pinot Noir from Davis Family Vineyards

It is rewarding to find small, well-run vineyards and wineries. It is even better if they happen to make good wine. Davis Family Vineyards is an excellent example. Located in high on a ridge in the Russian River Valley, Davis Family Vineyards is the work of owner and winemaker, Guy Davis. Guy’s 7 1/2 acres contain Zinfandel vines planted in 1896, as well as more recent plantings of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. He also makes a Cabernet Sauvignon from grapes purchased from his neighbors, the Duttons.

I tasted these three great wines of theirs recently at a local tasting:

• 2005 Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($33.75)
• 2006 Russian River Valley Zinfandel – Old Vine ($29.99)
• 2005 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($40).

The ‘05 Chardonnay was fermented in 20% stainless steel and 80% oak, with about 1/3 of the oak new. The grapes were a combination of estate grown and selected grapes from the Dutton Ranch Vineyard. In the nose, Guy’s Chardonnay is subtle for a Californian. There is plenty of apple and melon, but the oak is down a step or two from most. In the mouth, the wine has a great feel with the apple and melon popping out without overt interference from the oak. This wine would go very well with a roasted chicken. It was my favorite offering at the tasting, and I gave it in our wine rating system.

The ’06 Zinfandel is made entirely from the old estate vines planted in 1896. The vines produce only enough grapes for an annual production of approximately 75 cases, so we were lucky to get to try it. In the glass, the wine is bright with raspberry and plum notes backed by some spice. When you take a sip you are greeted by a full-bodied Zin that is not over the top. Fine grained tannins lead you to a long finish. I gave the Zinfandel a .

Guy’s ’05 Russian River Pinot Noir is an excellent example of turning down the Californian volume. The wine is made entirely from estate grown grapes that Guy sequentially picks over several weeks to ensure optimal ripeness. The nose of the Pinot Noir is full of strawberry and spice, but it is not over-the-top jammy. On the palette, the wine is silky and lush, with a long finish. I also liked this wine and gave it a as well.

I think you will like the wines from Davis Family Vineyard, whether you prefer California or Old World style. If you prefer Californian wines, I think you will like the subtle fruit in these. If you are a fan of Old World style, you might be surprised by their balance, good acid, and overall style.