Gnarly Head, Lodi (Central Valley, California) Zinfandel 2014

A big, generous wine that seems to simmer with pent up energy, Gnarly Head Old Vine Zin evokes dark, ultra-ripe plums and berries dense with summery juice.  Add a dash of vanilla and a flash of spice and enjoy it with equally substantial foods — ribs, of course, are made for it, a good chili con carne would be great too, and there’s no doubt that the almighty burger tastes better than ever in the company of Gnarly Head Zinfandel.