Today’s Wine Wednesday selection comes from Mexico. Mexico? Yep. Mexico. The L.A. Cetto 2007 Zinfandel is from Valle de Guadalupe in Baja California, Mexico. Located northeast of Ensenada, the Valle de Guadalupe is Mexico’s largest wine-producing region.
Mexico is the oldest wine-producing country in the Americas dating back to 1521 soon after the arrival of the Spanish conquistadores. By the end of the 16th century, the country was producing enough wine to support its needs without imports. By contrast, at the end of the 17th century, production came to a standstill as only sacramental wines were allowed to be made. Not until the early 20th century would the Mexican wine industry resume large production.
Today, quality wine making is on the rise in Mexico with wineries from Valle de Guadalupe leading the way. There are over a dozen wineries in the area. The major varietals grown are Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Tempranillo, Barbera, Colombard, Nebbiolo, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc.
L.A. Cetto is one of the oldest and largest wineries in the area. Don Angelo Cetto began making wine in Valle de Guadalupe back in 1928 and the current winery was founded in 1975.
The 2007 Zinfandel is medium ruby in color at the core with a wide pale ruby rim. It displays
aromas of blackberry, plum, violet, and a little sweet spice. On the palate the wine had flavors
of blackberry with a dark brambly undercurrent. There are moderate tannins and acidity.
Although this wine has an alcohol level of 14.5%, it did not feel too high.
Enjoy this wine with your Thanksgiving leftovers.
