Zinfandel Xylophone Zin 2023

Big aromas of root beer and cola on the nose, with notes of vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg.  In the mouth, we find blackberry jam and hints of brown sugar and molasses.  The body is rich, soft and inviting.

Tucked into the northern edge of the San Joaquin Valley, Lodi is distinguished by rich, diverse soils.  The region has been home to wine production since the 1850s and has a Mediterranean climate with warm days and cool nights, thanks to the infamous “delta breeze.”  While the AVA has many different soil types, most places have deep loam soils and large rocks.

Treated with new world winemaking techniques every step of the way, these grapes were fully destemmed and fermented warm in stainless steel tanks to enhance dark fruit character and given daily pumpovers to yield soft tannins.  Picked a little past the peak of ripeness, the clusters included occasional raisins to offer higher concentration and dried fruit flavors.  The wine was aged with a combination of French and American oak to showcase confectionary aromas.

This wine can easily stand on its own, but would do well in any casual setting, such as barbeque or back yard cook out.  It will pair well with sticky ribs or wings.  It can also hold up to wild game (venison, boar) or foraged mushrooms (chanterelles, morels).  For cheese, look toward Manchego or a vintage Cheddar.  If you have a sweet tooth, think blackberry cobbler.