Niebaum-Pennino Edizione Pennino Rutherford Zinfandel
Presenting a deep ruby with violet edges. On the nose, you’ll find ripe blackberry, black cherry, plum, clove, and hints of licorice and spice. The palate is lush with generous dark fruit like boysenberry, black plum wrapped in notes of mocha and black pepper. Niebaum‑Pennino stands on a storied Napa legacy first shaped by Gustave Niebaum in the late 19th century. Over time, the estate passed through various hands until acquisition by Francis Ford Coppola, who reconnected it with its heritage. The “Edizione Pennino” line honors Coppola’s maternal grandfather, Francesco Pennino, a composer and music publisher.
Grape Varietal: Zinfandel, Primitivo, Petite Syrah
Feature: Sustainable
Country: United States
Region: California
Appellation: Rutherford
Grape Profile: Zinfandel has a fruit-forward style with blackberry, cherry, raspberry and sometimes blueberry and other flavors and aromas of black pepper, cloves, anise, dried herbs, tobacco, cedar, and tar. Primitivo adds aromatic brightness and structure enhancing the wine’s complexity.
Region Profile: The Rutherford Bench is a canonical sub‑region in Napa Valley with a reputation for producing powerful, well‑balanced reds. Soils are a mix of loam, clay, gravel, and volcanic elements, often delivering both structure and sensuality. The area’s diurnal temperature swings and good drainage foster ripe fruit while retaining freshness.
Pair with: Grilled meats like barbecue and lamb. Charcuterie and sausages. Rich tomato-based dishes like pasta and pizza. Roasted poultry like duck and chicken. Aged cheeses like cheddar and gouda.
