Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2021  £20.18

Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel

Grapes were harvested from a wide selection of Clines oldest, most historic and shyest-bearing Zinfandel blocks in Contra Costa County. These ancient, dry-farmed vineyards consistently produce the fruit of stunning concentration. Lots were harvested separately according to ripeness and balance of acidity. Grapes underwent near-total destemming and a very gentle crushing to ensure a large proportion of whole berries in the must — contributing to the explosive fruit character of the wine. The grapes, juice, skins, and seeds along with some added yeasts were fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at the optimum temperature to extract rich flavours and provide excellent colour. The wine was pressed off its skins at dryness and racked gently before being laid down on American oak (38% new) for 10 months.

Ancient Vines Zinfandel shows spicy, bright strawberry, coffee and chocolate characters. Ripe fruit and soft tannins make this a mouth-coating rich vintage. Ageing on new and used oak has lent this wine a subtle vanilla quality that nicely complements the explosive fruit notes. Try with rich beef stews and creamy poultry dishes.