Cline Old Vine Zinfandel

Cline's Old Vine Zinfandel is a California red built on Zinfandel from mature, old vines. Old-vine fruit tends to crop small and concentrated, and the wine is made in a ripe, juicy, fruit-forward style. Expect dark berry fruit at the center, such as blackberry, black cherry and bramble, with a touch of spice running through it. Styles like this usually have a full, plush body and soft to moderate tannins. Zinfandel often carries moderate acidity and a warm finish, so the wine feels generous rather than austere. Oak is typically a supporting element that adds a little vanilla or baking-spice nuance without taking over the fruit. Cline is a family-owned winery known for its Zinfandel and Rhône-style reds, and this bottling reflects that fruit-first approach. The wine's richness and spice make it a good match for food with some char and sweetness. Barbecued pork ribs, smoked brisket and grilled sausages are natural fits, because the ripe fruit stands up to smoky, sweet-savory sauces. It also works with pepperoni or sausage pizza, lasagna and baked pasta in tomato sauce. Meatloaf, burgers with aged cheddar and roasted lamb are other good partners. Zinfandel's jammy fruit can overwhelm delicate dishes, so lighter fish and plain salads are better paired with something else. Serve it slightly cooler than room temperature, around 60 to 65°F (16 to 18°C). A short stretch in the refrigerator, about 15 to 20 minutes before opening, keeps the alcohol from feeling hot and the fruit bright. Wines in this style are generally made to drink on release and don't need decanting. Pouring the bottle into a decanter or letting it breathe for 15 to 30 minutes can soften the edges a little if you want to. A standard red wine glass or a larger Bordeaux-style bowl gives the berry aromas room to open up. This is a drink-now bottle. It's built for its fruit and approachability rather than long cellaring, so it's best enjoyed within a few years of purchase. Keep it on its side or upright in a cool, dark spot until you're ready to open it.