At Brown Estate Vineyards in the Chiles Valley AVA, Zinfandel had time on its side this year.

A unique combination of conditions during the 2026 growing season gave the fruit more time on the vine, allowing it to ripen slowly and evenly while developing the character Brown Estate looks for in its Zinfandel.

While yields may be lighter this year, the fruit coming into the winery is showing plenty of promise. It’s a look at how the right conditions came together at the right time for Brown Estate’s signature variety.

Follow along for more updates from Napa Valley’s 2026 harvest!