2012 was a large harvest and in Barrel by the mid October. It was a harvested in early September. It was harvested at an average of 24 Brix and fermented in open top fermenters for 10-14 days. Our press is a 1906 wood press and ensures a light touch. The vintage had a cold winter followed by a long and warm dry season. It was one of the earliest bud break dates we had at that point.

Just as the legendary St. George slayed the dragon, Sky’s four rows of dry farmed St. George rootstock Old Vine Zinfandel, planted in 1972, have survived through 50 years of hardship, fires, and droughts. Lore Olds’ hand-carved woodblock dragon pays homage to both St. Georges for this special wine for which the St. George was vinified and bottled separately for the first time ever. This is a wine of deep beauty and character that marries the tangible and the mythical. This wine is ready to drink now and tastes very youthful or hold and for up to 5 years.

The St. George label is a photo of a redwood carving from Lore Olds. The artwork depicts a dragon in reference to the rootstock and the fairytale: St. George and the Dragon. In our version, the dragon is the hero, and survives all the battles.