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The Biale family began growing grapes in Napa in 1930. Back then, the fruit from the Biale estate was sold for blending into bulk wine. It was not until 1991 that the Biales chose to start fermenting the oldest Zinfandel vines on the ranch under their own label. The resulting wine, named after longtime farmer Aldo Biale, was called “Aldo’s Vineyard.”

The first batch produced some 400 cases from about 8 acres of 60-year-old vines.

Every wine made at Biale is vineyard designated only in years when the growing season is considered outstanding. Wines made that are not grown on the Biale ranch are from grapes grown through farming contracts with small independent growers in Napa, Sonoma, Lodi and Contra Costa.  

Robert Biale Zappa 2004 $36.00
A concoction of 65% Zinfandel, 18 % Petit Syrah and 17% Syrah that has dark fruit, forest floor, white mushroom and red berry aromas. The palate is quite sweet right now, but there is acidity in the background and on the finish. I think time will settle this baby down and let it round out.  Find this wine

Robert Biale Monte Rosso Zinfandel 2001 $55.00
There is plenty of sweet plushy fruit along with tart plum and cedar. As it starts to open it releases flavours of red liquorish, white pepper and a secondary layer of ripe red berry. The vines in Monto Rosso vineyard have surpassed the 110-year milestone, which explains the depth and concentration to this stellar bottle of wine.   Find this wine

Robert Biale Hill Climber Rolly Acres Syrah 2003 $56.00
At first, the sweetness of the oak prevails, but it quickly opens to show a French style of wine making that reminds me of dark Daniel Rion Burgundy, from its leafy, floral and underbrush aromas. The blackberry shines on the palate. Its richness is matched by a layer of dark chocolate and black fruit acidity.
Find this wine

Robert Biale Hill Climber Pilgrimage Syrah 2003 $36.00
A racy wine full of blackberry fruit, good balance of acidity and plenty of sweet concentrated blackcurrant on the finish. Find this wine

Robert Biale Hill Climber Monte Rosso 2003 $56.00
This is really tough to access as it is so tightly wound and tannic. The aromas are heady and quite exhilarating. The palate is rich and creamy, well balanced and fruit laden. Find this wine

How I would love to taste this in ten years time.  

Cheers from the valley,

CZ

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