There are a variety of reds out there, and one of the most uniquely Californian is the Zinfandel.
As a matter of fact, just over 10 percent of the vineyards in California grow Zin grapes. Old Vine Zinfandels, are a designation where the vines themselves are at least 50 years old. The benefit? Even though these older vines produce smaller berries and small clusters, these vines tend to produce a more robust, fruitier wine. Not to be confused with the white zinfandel, which produces a semi-sweet rose-colored wine. The Old Vine Zin is usually a really delicious full-bodied wine.
The Gnarly Head 2006 Old Vine Zin hails from the Lodi area, and is an excellent budget wine to try. It's rich and full bodied, fills the mouth with flavor and has a jammy, "chewy" consistency that is quite pleasurable to the palette. It's a great meat wine, as this Examiner often has it with a nice tri tip or with some braised ribs. It's also a great standalone wine - we've enjoyed this wine many time "as is", a nice balanced wine to help wind down the day.
You can find this wine in many local stores - BevMo, Fresh and Easy, Henry's and Cost Plus. Coming in around 10 dollars or less, if you're looking for a wine that many people will like, go for the Gnarly Head. It's totally tubular.
Comments