Red dry
Pedroncelli Mother Clone Zinfandel 2023 is a rich, fruity, and spicy red wine from Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma, California. It is based on the Zinfandel variety, with the addition of Petite Sirah, which lends the wine greater depth and structure.
The aroma reveals notes of ripe red berries, cinnamon, white pepper, and a subtle hint of vanilla. On the palate, flavors of black cherry, licorice, and warm baking spices take center stage. The rich fruitiness is balanced by well-integrated acidity, while a peppery spice lingers on the finish.
The grapes are destemmed and undergo a 48-hour cold soak before being fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged for 12 months in American oak barrels, 30% of which are new.
The story behind the name: "Mother Clone" refers to the continuity of the vineyard—the newer vines are propagated from the original stock planted in the early 20th century. This wine incorporates a harvest from three generations of vines, supplemented by grapes from the Bushnell and Giovannoni vineyards.
Serve at 16–18°C. Recommended with grilled beef, pork ribs, lamb, or aged hard cheeses. The richness of the fruit and the spice notes pair particularly well with seared meat and smoky sauces.
Pedroncelli Winery is a historic family-owned winery in Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, with a history dating back to 1927. It was founded by Giovanni and Julia Pedroncelli—an Italian-American couple—who purchased a farm near Geyserville that included a Zinfandel vineyard and an old winery building. Today, the business is managed by the third and fourth generations of the family.
The property was acquired during the era of Prohibition in the United States; consequently, the family initially sustained itself by selling grapes to home winemakers. Following the repeal of Prohibition, Giovanni applied for a permit to produce wine in 1934. Over time, the small farm evolved into a winery that has become an integral part of the winemaking history of Dry Creek Valley.
Zinfandel is the signature grape variety at Pedroncelli Winery; it was already growing on the estate when the family first acquired it. The legacy of these old vines lives on today through the "Mother Clone"—vines propagated using cuttings from the original, historic vineyard block. This approach preserves a direct link between the heritage plantings and the new generations of vines.
The family manages approximately 46.5 hectares of their own vineyards. The winery’s philosophy emphasizes the distinct characteristics of each grape variety, the expression of the site of origin, and food-friendliness. In addition to Zinfandel, their portfolio includes wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and other varieties. Pedroncelli’s reputation is further bolstered by its excellent price-to-quality ratio; Robert Parker has highlighted the family’s ability to offer distinctive, high-quality wines at an accessible price point. The appeal of this producer stems from a long family history, a consistent style, and a deep connection to its vineyards.
