|
In 1988, Scott and Pam Miller purchased an existing Zinfandel vineyard (planted in 1981) and began development of Single Leaf Vineyards and Winery. In 1989 and 1990 they planted additional grape varietals including Barbera, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petite Sirah. They began as grape growers, saving a portion of their crop each year. The winery was completed in 1992 and in 1993, they were able to open the winery to the public with estate-grown wines.
Single Leaf is a small, family owned and operated winery where wine quality and customer care are top priorities. At Single Leaf, the belief is that great wines begin in the vineyards. Therefore, the wine philosophy is to maintain low yielding crops, thereby creating intensely-flavored, vibrant wines. Hand crafted wines are the ongoing standard not the exception at Single Leaf. Production runs between 4000-5000 cases per year.
The winemaking style at Single Leaf can best be described as traditional. The grapes are harvested by hand when the color, flavor and sugar are judged to be optimal. The grapes are crushed within hours of picking and fermented in open-top fermenters. Aging is done in 50, 60 or 90 gallon oak barrels for 20-24 months. Both American (some from Oregon) and French Oak are used for aging. The wine-style reflected by Single Leaf not only compliments food but is capable of aging for many years.
Single Leaf has a reputation for producing unique Zinfandels. Up to five differing styles of Zinfandels are produced and bottled each year. The use of the vineyard technique known as “dry farming” (vines are not irrigated but only provided water by nature) is, in part, responsible for the vibrancy of Single Leaf Zinfandels. Other award winning wines in the Single Leaf lineup include:
* Chardonnays-Barrel fermented, creating lightly oaked, citrus flavored wines
* Cabernet Sauvignons-Rich and full bodied with luscious cherry flavors
* Ports-Sweet yet always complex
* Small in quantity but big in quality-Barberas,
Cabernet Francs, Malbecs and Petite Sirahs
|
