Join us for an exclusive masterclass and horizontal tasting of five exceptional Napa Zinfandels from the 2022 vintage, guided by Napa Zin legend Bob Biale.
Event details
Napa Valley is renowned worldwide for its high quality Cabernet Sauvignon, but the region’s diverse soils and climate also make it an ideal growing area for a wide array of grape varieties, from Albarino to Zinfandel. Zinfandel has been a cornerstone of Napa Valley and California wine production for over a century, with more than 500 hectares planted across the valley today - representing 3% of the region’s total planted acreage and ranking as its sixth most widely cultivated variety. However, Zinfandel’s true significance goes far beyond its acreage, holding a vital place in Napa’s history as one of its "heritage" varieties.
Join us for a one-of-a-kind masterclass, where you’ll taste five exceptional Napa Valley Zinfandels from five distinct growing regions, all from the outstanding 2022 vintage. This exclusive tasting will be led by Bob Biale, Napa Valley's leading Zinfandel producer and the founder of Robert Biale Vineyards. Bob will guide you through the fascinating history of Napa Valley Zinfandel and its incredible diversity.
To complement the wines, a selection of cheese and charcuterie will be served.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to deepen your understanding and appreciation of one of Napa’s most iconic varietals.
Example tasting list
- 2022 Black Chicken Zinfandel, Napa Valley (primarily sourced from the Oak Knoll District AVA)
- 2022 R.W. Moore Vineyard Zinfandel, Coombsville
- 2022 Stagecoach Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley (sourced from southeastern hillsides near the Atlas Peak AVA)
- 2022 Morisoli Vineyard Zinfandel, Rutherford
- 2022 Old Kraft Vineyard Zinfandel, St. Helena
Tasting level
Masterclass: Our most advanced sessions, suitable for those who have a WSET Level 3 qualification or equivalent knowledge. Gain expert knowledge and insights from a specialist speaker.
About the speaker, Bob Biale
Born and raised in Napa, Robert (Bob) Biale is the son and grandson of Napa Valley grape growers. Working the farm was an integral part of growing up, but he left the ranch after high school to explore other horizons. While studying engineering at San Diego State, Bob served in the Navy Reserves as a Search & Rescue Air Crewman. Before graduating, he also served as a lay missionary for the Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea for three years.
Upon returning to the states, Bob finished his bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies/Social Justice at Dominican College of San Rafael and married his wife, Wendy. However, it wasn’t long before the family vineyards beckoned him to return, and in 1989, Bob pursued a career in winemaking. He worked as a harvest intern at Beringer, which later became a 10-year cellar position.
In 1991, Bob and his partners Dave Pramuk, Al Perry, and his father, Aldo Biale, formed Robert Biale Vineyards. Today, Bob is the owner, President, and Manager of Vineyard Operations and Grower Relations. He is also the past president of Zinfandel Advocates and Producers, a past board member of the Napa County Farm Bureau, and a current board member of the Historic Vineyard Society.
Outside of Biale, Bob is an active member of St. Apollinaris Catholic Church and participates in other local philanthropic efforts. He is the father of two adult children, Alex and Michela, and, in his spare time, he enjoys traveling and hiking with Wendy.
Booking terms and conditions
Payment in full must be made at the time of booking and places are not confirmed until payment has been received. Unfortunately we cannot take provisional bookings.
Cancellations and transfers
- Cancellations and transfers can be made up to two weeks before the event.
- Cancellations within 10 working days are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another event.
- If you need to change a name on the booking, please give us as much notice as possible.
- WSET School London reserves the right to cancel an event. If necessary, a full refund or transfer will be offered.
Please note: The sample list and speaker/s may be subject to change.