We received the product for review and all opinions are our own.
When we think of big-bold red wines, Zinfandel is typically on the A-list of grapes that produce a wine that is just that. Not only can Zinfandel be highly extracted, but many are extremely sensual on the palate being jammy and voluptuous. Northern California has long been respected in the high-end Zin world, so I am never shy to have a taste of something new that I have not had before. The descriptors “sensual and voluptuous” are not surprising when attached to a wine that bears the name Zin-Phomaniac.
Zin-Phomaniac produces a pair of wines that source fruit from old vines in Lodi and Sonoma for their Reserve Zinfandel. Both regions are well known for producing stunning Zinfandel for many reasons, but there is no doubt the Lodi appellation has truly become a regional leader when it comes to the Zinfandel grape. The wine up for review today is the Zin-Phomaniac made from the Lodi-sourced grapes, and with the tantalizing label and sensual descriptors, I couldn’t wait to pop the cork to see what was inside the bottle. Let’s get to it!
After the capsule is cut, the cork was gently removed from its tomb. The wine pours into the glass a pale ruby color. The nose is chock full of red fruit notes offering nuances of raspberry, ripe red cherry, baking spices, and a red fruit jam. The palate sums up the nose almost exactly, with a round mouthfeel and a very distinct texture of old vine bark and sand. The age of the vines really brings forth some earthy substance on the back of the palate, which I find very pleasing. The wine finishes smoothly, offering a slight lingering effect. The fruit sourced for this wine came from vines ranging from 20 to 75 years of age.
Specifications:
- Zin-Phomaniac Lodi Zinfandel, 2015 vintage
- Appellation: California, Lodi AVA
- Terroir: Temperate, Mediterranean, with sandy loam soils
- Grape varieties: Zinfandel
- Clarity/brightness: Clear/bright with no detectable flaws, and no evidence of gas or sediment
- Tannins: Medium
- Acidity: Medium to medium plus
- Alcohol: Medium plus
- Finish: Moderate
- Alcohol by volume: 14.5%
- Price: $14.99 per bottle at the time of review
This bottle of wine clearly speaks of its origin with the Lodi fruit confidently producing a wine with distinct jammy character, and with a fairly mellow mouthfeel with pronounced alcohol. The wine itself is not overly aggressive by any means; it is quite supple and very drinkable. I do expect it to open up a bit more with age as it is a fairly young red wine, but I doubt this will ever be a mind boggling wine in regards to complexity. I recommend decanting if you drink it now, and serve with your favorite pork dish.
Sip, savor, and enjoy my fellow aficionados.
