Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2020 750ml

Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel

Style: Red – Bold and Juicy
Winery: Cline Family Cellars
Vineyards/Production Location: Contra Costa County, California, USA

Tasting Notes:

Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel displays a deep ruby hue with garnet reflections. The nose offers inviting aromas of ripe blackberries, dark plums, and red currants, enhanced by hints of black pepper, vanilla, and toasted oak. On the palate, this wine is full-bodied and richly textured, showcasing flavors of juicy black cherry, raspberry, and boysenberry, interwoven with notes of chocolate, spice, and subtle earthy undertones. Balanced acidity and well-integrated tannins lead to a long, smooth finish.

Food Pairings:

• Grilled Meats: Perfect with barbecued ribs, lamb chops, or beef brisket.
• Hearty Stews: Complements dishes like beef bourguignon or lamb stew.
• Aged Cheeses: Pairs well with mature cheeses such as aged cheddar, Gouda, or Manchego.

Serving Recommendations:

• Temperature: Serve at 60-65°F (16-18°C) to bring out its full complexity.
• Decanting: Decant for 30 minutes before serving to allow the wine to open up.
• Glassware: Use a Bordeaux glass to concentrate the wine’s aromas and enhance the tasting experience.

Winery Background:

Cline Family Cellars, established in 1982 by Fred and Nancy Cline, began in Oakley, California, with a mission to preserve historic vineyards planted by Italian and Portuguese immigrants over a century ago. The Ancient Vines Zinfandel pays homage to this heritage, utilizing fruit from some of the oldest and most revered Zinfandel vines in Contra Costa County. Known for producing wines with exceptional depth and character, Cline Family Cellars continues to uphold its reputation for quality and tradition.