Fields Family Wines, Lodi (California) Cinsault 2019

 Lots of consideration goes into how to best express the unique character of a vineyard.  What level of ripeness, or sugar content at harvest, is one of the larger points to consider, as it drastically affects the finished wine, especially when a minimal intervention approach is adopted.  Winemaker Ryan Sherman opts for a barely and in my humble opinion perfectly ripe pick here, and the resulting wine shows a delicacy and elegance that an old (planted in 1886) vineyard can produce.  The wine is quite floral on the nose, with notes of strawberry and cherry joining.  On the palate, singing acidity helps translate aromas into flavors, and the finish adds an earthy character reminiscent of dried leaves and brown spice.  If you’d like an alternative to the usual Pinot Noir on your fine dining table, this is a fine and wallet friendly choice.  I love this wine!