2016 Zin-Phomaniac Old vine Zinfandel Lodi CA Mendocino Wine Co
I don't often buy a wine based on the label, I'm more likely to do some research online, google some reviews, and decide if I want to spend my hard earned money on it.... my wife on the other hand, has great luck finding delicious wines using the pretty label method. Go figure....
But when I saw that the fruit was sourced from Lodi, home to some of the finest old vine (50-70 years old) and ancient vine (80-100+ years old) vineyards in this country, I decided to try a bottle of it. It didn't hurt that the price was right either....
The wine opens with notes of bright cherry, plum, and another red fruit...almost a mix of spicy strawberry and red raspberry in the nose. The palate has matching flavors, with a hint of cinnamon, and the finish lingers nicely, with the flavors of the raspberry and strawberry fading pleasantly. It has a nice slightly thick mouthfeel, with just the right amount of acidity which helped it pair beautifully with the ribs I had for dinner.
So, suggestive label aside... this is a well made Zinfandel from some good grapes that will pair well with grilled chicken, pork, and a well marbled steak. I'm thinking grilled veggies that include some crimini mushrooms would also taste good with this wine. Or you could go with more simple fair, some Prosciutto, a good Parmesan cheese, and other dried smoked meats... after all, this is the same grape as Primitivo from Italy.... legend has it that Italian immigrants brought the vines with them to this country during the Gold Rush, and at other times as well.
You can order it from the winery for $18.00 per bottle, I'm sure there are other online retailers who offer it as well. It's available at the West Lebanon Liquor outlet store for $9.99 per bottle, and this month there's a 15% discount on 12 or more powerbuy wines as well. So you could get a delicious, well made Zin, for $8.50 per bottle that be great with your summer bbq's.
Cheers!
Ed
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