2024 Scar of The Sea Old Vine Zinfandel "Lopez Vineyard", Cucamonga Valley, California, USA

ABOUT THE WINE

Sourced from Lopez Vineyard, a historic site planted in the early 1900s in the Cucamonga Valley AVA, this Zinfandel comes from dry-farmed, own-rooted, head-trained vines growing in deep alluvial sand at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. These gnarly old vines—many over 100 years old—produce fruit of low yields and exceptional character. In 2024, the grapes were harvested early for freshness, fermented with native yeasts, and aged in neutral French oak barrels. The wine is unfined, unfiltered, and bottled with minimal sulfur, allowing its historic vineyard character to shine through with a graceful, transparent lens. Expect flavors of wild strawberry, dried orange peel, black tea, and crushed rock. Ideal with grilled sausages, lentil stew, or Moroccan-spiced vegetables.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Scar of the Sea, the project of Mikey and Gina Giugni, is rooted in California’s coastal and historical vineyard landscapes. While best known for their coastal expressions of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and cider, the Giugnis are equally passionate about preserving California’s viticultural heritage, especially old vine sites like Lopez Vineyard. Their work in Cucamonga Valley reflects a reverence for the past—farming with minimal inputs, harvesting for balance, and crafting wines without makeup or manipulation. With this Zinfandel, Scar of the Sea challenges expectations: the result is not jammy or overripe, but lithe, savory, and alive—proof that Zinfandel can be as nuanced and site-driven as any noble grape when handled with respect.