Zio Tony Ranch

The Zio Tony Ranch is named after Lee Sr.’s uncle Tony who was the first in the Bondi family to be born on American soil. Zio Tony, Zio meaning ‘uncle’ in Italian and pronounced ‘tseo’, was a very charismatic man with a big booming voice whom loved a good time. When Zio Tony passed away in 1971 his nephew, Lee Martinelli, Sr., took over management of the estate. The love of his family’s heritage land was too great for Lee to sell the property and in one short season he went from High School teacher to Apple Farmer.  Eventually this apple orchard was converted to vineyards, as the market for apples grew unbearably soft.  The vines are planted on rolling hills made up of Gold Ridge soil, with Clones consisting of 95, 76, and 548.

The year 2024 provided much-needed relief and a welcome return to normalcy following the extreme temperatures of 2022 and 2023. The growing season was nearly ideal, beginning with a cool spring and transitioning into a warm, yet not excessively hot, summer. Abundant rainfall throughout the season fostered even and robust cluster development. While a brief heatwave occurred in early October, the ample water availability helped mitigate its impact. Unlike the challenges faced in 2023, this year saw no significant rain events during harvest. We are thrilled to share this exceptional vintage with you.

Wonderful aromatics of rhubarb, blackberry, and cinnamon ae found on the nose. The driving acidity lifts the full palate and flavors of dark cherries and fresh blackberries.  Cacao nibs are present in the everlasting finish.