Zinfandel has been called California’s grape: it’s a little rebellious, often misunderstood, and always the life of the party. In this episode of Unfiltered, we’re diving deep into Zin’s roots with Chris Morisoli, fifth-generation Napa Valley grapegrower, helicopter pilot, and host of the Nine One Wine podcast. From the old vines of Rutherford to the spicy, fruit-driven bottles from Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley, Amanda and Chris unpack what makes Zinfandel so uniquely American—and why it’s poised for a major comeback. Along the way, Chris shares family stories dating back to the 1800s, what it’s really like during harvest season (spoiler: it starts at 3AM), and why the “Old Vine” label isn’t always what it seems.
Wine Featured on This Episode:
2023 Dancing Zinfandel Fresh Take Dry Creek Valley
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Host: Amanda McCrossin
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🍇 Where to find Chris:
Morisoli Vineyard – https://www.morisolivineyard.com
Nine One Wine Podcast – https://www.nineonewine.com
🌎 Other Producers & References
Ravenswood Winery
Bedrock Wine Co. – Heritage vineyards & old-vine Zinfandel champions from Morgan Twain-Peterson MW
Turley Wine Cellars – Referenced for “Old Vines” benchmark; Larry Turley’s 50-year rule
Robert Biale Vineyards – Morisoli single-vineyard bottling, including the famous Black Chicken Zinfandel.
Sandlands Wines (Tegan Passalacqua) – Celebrated for authentic, small-lot old-vine Zinfandel and lesser-known varietals
Elyse Winery – Producers of Morisoli Vineyard Zinfandel from 1987–2018
🥂 Restaurants, Food & Fun Mentions
Buster’s Southern BBQ (Calistoga)
Taco Azteca (Napa Valley)
Cook St. Helena
COTE Korean Steakhouse
Coqodaq - Featured for “fried chicken & Champagne” pairing, as seen on Apple TV’s Chasing Stars
Dry Creek General Store – Amanda’s rec for best sandwiches while exploring Dry Creek Valley
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