"The Zinfandel-based 2016 Román is plump, juicy and forward. Succulent red cherry, plum, spice…all propped up by bright acids. Dollops of Petite Sirah and Barbera round out the blend. This is a fabulous value from Marietta."
--------THE PRODUCER--------
Marietta Cellars
Marietta Cellars is a small winery that is found in the Geyserville sub-region of California. The foundation of the winery is 'Family'. Marietta Cellars started some 50 years ago through the hard work put in by the father of the now owners: Jake and Scott Bilboro. The traditions of hard work, working alongside and making great wines that you can be proud of have been instilled in the Bilboro brothers for many years. They are a truly modern and sustainable winery that is making high quality wines at decent price points because there is one thing they cherish above hard work and respect: wine is made for drinking and enjoying.
--------THE GRAPE--------
Primitivo/Zinfandel
Confusingly Primitivo and Zinfandel are the same grape. As for why they have such wildly different names is because it has had long histories in two main countries, and an even longer history in its historical home of Croatia where it is known as Tribidrag, without anyone knowing they were the same grape until recent DNA testing proved they were.
--------THE REGION--------
California
California is the United States of America's largest and most important wine region. It produces 90% of the USA's total production - with the fair majority of that being red wines. Since it is 'always sunny in California' it is the perfect region to grow red grapes that need a lot of heat to ripen up. This has lead to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and an Italian grape varietal: Primitivo (Californian's call in Zinfandel) to being the most important red grapes. Chardonnay is the leading white followed by Sauvignon Blanc.