# Ancient Vines Zinfandel (2022)

- **Producer:** Cline Family Cellars
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zinfandel, Carignan
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, blueberry, black pepper, vanilla, cloves, cream, cinnamon

## About this wine

Founded in 1982 by Fred Cline, Cline Family Cellars championed non-irrigated historic vineyards in Contra Costa County. Sourced from century-old head-trained vines planted in deep sandy soils along the San Joaquin Delta, these ancient dry-farmed roots survived the phylloxera epidemic without grafting.

## Interesting facts

- Sourced from 100-125 year old dry-farmed vines planted on native roots.
- Deep beach sand soil naturally protected these ancient vines from phylloxera.
- Fermented in open-top concrete tanks to extract rich flavors and vibrant color.

## Food pairing

The high fruit concentration, rich weight, and supple tannins of Zinfandel pair seamlessly with sweet-savory barbecue, rich ragùs, and earthy spices, complementing bold protein flavors without harsh metallic clashes.

## Wine making process

Grapes are harvested by lot based on optimal ripeness and acidity balance. Following destemming and gentle crushing to retain a high proportion of whole berries, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled open-top concrete tanks to gently extract color and flavor. The wine is aged for 16 months in French oak barrels prior to blending and bottling.