This wine has been slowly dialed back from its original bombastic style, and I for one applaud the choice. Fear not – there’s still plenty of bold pleasure to be had. A little less ripeness allows a little more pepper to remain in the mix, and it adds a dimension that the best Zinfandels always carry. A Platinum Award winner at the 2021 Sommelier Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition.
Mettler Family Vineyards, Lodi (San Joaquin County, California) Old Vine Zinfandel 2019
By Rich Cook