Show Notes
In this episode of "The Good Stuff," presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk with Doug Nalle, Zinmaster, Original Winemaker Emeritus and founder of Nalle Winery.
Doug Nalle, who earned his master's in Enology from UC Davis in 1979, founded Nalle Winery with his first vintage in 1984. An innovator by nature, Doug's vision for Nalle Winery was brought to life with his wife and partner, Lee Henderlong, whose parents owned a historic Zinfandel vineyard in Dry Creek Valley, the Henderlong Ranch. Today, Doug continues to consult on vintages with his son, Andrew, who has taken on the role of winemaker, while Andrew's wife, April, manages viticulture and hospitality. Their other son, Sam, followed his own path and works in biomedical research. With the whole family involved, Nalle remains a true family operation, dedicated to crafting expressive, balanced wines. Today, you might find Doug on the golf course, consulting with Andrew on the upcoming vintages, or visiting with guests in the tasting room.
Located in the heart of Dry Creek Valley, Nalle Winery is surrounded by century-old vines planted by the Henderlong family in 1927, which contribute to the estate's distinct Zinfandel. Known for producing wines with lower alcohol levels and balanced acidity, Nalle avoids the overly jammy style typical of many California Zins. Their Dry Creek Zinfandel has become a benchmark in the region, complemented by small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and their unique proprietary Cabernet/Zinfandel blend.
The winery's primary fruit source, the Henderlong Ranch Vineyard, is a historic, dry-farmed site just steps from the winery. Alongside it, the Sibary Vineyard, planted in 1999, also contributes to the estate's winemaking. Both vineyards are dry-farmed and recognized by the Historic Vineyard Society, preserving a heritage of sustainable viticulture that adds character to every bottle.
And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!
