August Briggs Napa Valley Old Vine Zinfandel 2021

Winemaking

August Briggs is known for a hands-on approach to Napa Valley winemaking, focusing on vineyard selection and minimal intervention in the cellar. The winery emphasizes the character of old vine Zinfandel blocks, allowing the fruit and terroir to express themselves rather than imposing heavy oak or new wood influence.

Tasting Notes

This old vine Zinfandel opens with ripe dark berries—blackberry and plum—alongside subtle white pepper and a hint of black licorice on the nose. The palate is rich and concentrated, with jammy red fruit flavors that feel generous without being overwrought, supported by firm, well-integrated tannins and judicious oak aging. The finish is long and warming, with lingering spice and fruit that extends gracefully across the palate.

Producer

August Briggs operates as a small, quality-focused winery in Napa Valley, built around the philosophy of working with older vineyard blocks that express complexity and depth. The winery prioritizes sustainable farming practices and selective fruit sourcing from established vineyards, allowing them to produce wines of character rather than volume.

Terroir

Napa Valley's diverse microclimates and volcanic soils provide ideal conditions for Zinfandel, a varietal that thrives in the region's warm days and cool nights. Old vine blocks, often planted decades ago in well-drained hillside locations, yield smaller berries with concentrated flavors and lower yields, contributing to the wine's richness and structural integrity.

Food Pairings

Pair this with grilled lamb chops brushed with rosemary and garlic, or a casual weeknight beef burger with caramelized onions and aged cheddar. It also pairs beautifully with braised short ribs in a red wine reduction, where the wine's firm tannins and spice notes complement the deep, savory meat.