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Not my father’s Zinfandel
I remember when I was a child my Dad making wine in the cellar, the Zinfandel grapes would arrive in the wooden crates from California and we would not be allowed to sneak a taste of the beautiful fruit. I never got a chance to try his wine however I remember his friends commenting how wonderful it was.  So I thought in honor of my father on Father’s Day I would explore Zinfandel.
Zinfandel originated in Croatia, though many think of it as primarily a California wine, it is also widely grown in Italy.  However there is nothing more typical California than Zinfandel, some of the best California growing regions are: Paso Robles, Lodi and Sonoma/Napa.  Lodi is the self-proclaimed Zinfandel Capital producing over 40 percent of the California Zinfandel with vines dating back to the 1880’s.   These old vines produce a distinct color and multi-deminalsional characteristics in a red wine from dark berry flavor that has layers of spice, plum, pepper and vanilla balance by light hit of toasted oak.    Here are some of my recent Zinfandels I have explored:
Predator Old Vine Zinfandel 2011; After my first sip I wanted a juicy grilled steak to go with it… rich fruit with a smoothness and zest  that work in harmony.  Predator Zinfandel is from 50+ year old vines from Lodi Appellation, the lady bug you notice on the logo is actually part of their natural and sustainable practices.
http://www.predatorwines.com/
Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2011; A brilliant and complex wine with supple fruit, hint of spice and light tannin finish.  “Ancient Vines” though not official classification are 80-100 year old Cline Family vines in Contra Costa County.
http://www.clinecellars.com/
7 Deadly Zins 2010 Michael David Winery; Grapes from the Lodi Appellations this wine has a juicy berry fruit flavor an appealing presence with soft tannin finish.
http://www.michaeldavidwinery.com/
Zinfandel pairs well with food from pizza to a good grilled steak…a perfect Father’s Day meal!  Cheers to my father who gave me the love of wine in my blood….Happy Fathers Day!  Denise

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