Blending took place at this time. The wine was then bottled in March 2000. The vineyards are all unique and are the same sources for the 1999 vintage. One is an extremely old block of Negrette that gives about one ton from its acre. The vineyard block on Piner Road is ancient Zinfandel with a few unknown mixed black vines scattered here and there.
Yield here is also about one ton per acre.
All 1999 lots were crushed, produced, and stored at the new Russian Hill Estate Winery at Slusser Road in Sonoma County. The year 2000 harvest will be at the same location as well. Complex notes of lurking white chocolate and scattered spices seem to rein in the exuberance. Next time you're fishing for a great Zinfandel, move into deep waters and hook a bottle of Michael-Scott. Racy acidity with good length in the finish.