Frog's Leap Winery
Flycatcher 2023
California
Frog’s Leap’s “Flycatcher” is a fresh, crowd-pleasing California red blend that reflects the winery’s passion for responsible sourcing and regional diversity. This eclectic mix showcases Lodi old‑vine Zinfandel, steep‑slope Petite Sirah, high‑elevation Merlot (Yorkville Highlands), and volcanic‑tufa Syrah from Carneros. A lively expression of Zinfandel’s generosity, savory depth from Petite Sirah, bright acidity and floral earthiness from Merlot, and spice from Syrah, Flycatcher is fruit‑forward yet structured—perfect for everyday enjoyment, yet nuanced enough to please enthusiasts.
VINEYARD
Frog’s Leap “Flycatcher” blends grapes from diverse California sites: old-vine Zinfandel from gravelly alluvial soils and gentle slopes; Petite Sirah from steep hillside vineyards; Merlot from high-elevation, earthy vineyards; and Syrah from volcanic-tufa soils with moderate slopes. Each vineyard’s unique soil, elevation, and drainage contribute to the wine’s vibrant, balanced character.
WINEMAKING
Frog’s Leap Flycatcher is a co-fermented blend crafted to highlight vibrancy and structure from diverse vineyard sites. Grapes—including old-vine Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Merlot, and Syrah—are harvested separately and partially co-fermented to integrate varietal character early. Native yeast fermentation takes place in stainless steel with gentle extraction to preserve fruit purity.
VINTAGE
The 2023 growing season in Napa Valley was characterized by a late start due to a wet and cold winter and cool spring, followed by mild, moderate temperatures throughout the summer.
TASTING NOTE
Generous, vibrant red fruit from Zinfandel, balanced by the savory depth of Tempranillo, Merlot, and Petite Sirah. Cinsault adds lift and softness, while Syrah contributes spicy, floral notes. A layered and complex glou glou!
Color
Red
Blend %
36% Zinfandel, 15% Cinsault, 13% Petite Sirah, 13%Carignane, 10% Termranillo, 9% Merlot, 4% Syrah
Appellation
California
Certifications
Organic
Farming
Organic and Dry Farming practices
Alcohol
13.2%
Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
Shale & Stone Chardonnay
Carneros
‘Shale and Stone’ on the label is reflective of the deep minerality of the vineyard’s ancient fractured shale soils and the freshness of the varietal. With long sur lie aging in concrete, it is taut but generous, and full yet bright on the palate.
Sauvignon Blanc
Rutherford
Stone fruit and white flower aromatics are perfectly complemented with crisp, minerally flavors. Fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity and distinctiveness of this noble grape.
Merlot
Carneros
Grown in cool clay and crafted with care- this Merlot is a refined, age-worthy wine of both subtlety and strength. Showing deep plum and cocoa notes with soft tannins and a savory finish, aged in a mix of small French oak barrels to enhance texture without overpowering the wine’s natural elegance.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Rutherford
This classically structured Estate Cabernet reflects a deep understanding of Rutherford Dust, with estate vineyards rooted in alluvial soils that balance up-valley richness and down-valley energy, creating a wine of vibrant tension. Layers of blackberry, cassis, and dried herbs and aged in restrained French oak.
Zinfandel
Rutherford
Made in the classic field blend style including significant portions of Petite Sirah and Carignane. Vibrant raspberry and black cherry fruit with hints of spice and earth, balanced by bright acidity and moderate tannins—crafted from dry-farmed, organically grown vines and aged in neutral oak to preserve its varietal purity and freshness.
