# Gary's Improv Zinfandel

- **Producer:** Clif Family Winery
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zinfandel
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 15.1%
- **Average price:** €46
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, blackberry, plum, black pepper, white pepper, chocolate, vanilla, cloves, cedar, smoke

## About this wine

Gary's Improv is a signature wine from Clif Family Winery, founded by Clif Bar creators Gary Erickson and Kit Crawford. Named after Gary Erickson, an avid jazz trumpet player who loves spontaneous musical improvisation, the wine reflects jazz by taking the classic theme of Napa Valley Zinfandel and responding creatively with each vintage. First introduced in 2003, this bottling showcases the winery's commitment to organic farming and sustainable estate viticulture in Napa Valley.

## Interesting facts

- Named after co-founder Gary Erickson, who often plays jazz trumpet at winery events with a glass in hand.
- Originally introduced in 2003, it was one of the very first red wines released by Clif Family Winery.
- Sourced from 100% CCOF-certified organic and Napa Green certified estate vineyards.

## Food pairing

High-alcohol, fruit-forward Zinfandels with medium tannins and vibrant natural acidity require robust, rich foods to match their intensity. Charred, grilled meats, rich barbecue sauces, and savory hard cheeses handle the weight and spice profile of the wine seamlessly.

## Wine making process

Crafted by winemaker Laura Barrett, this wine is made from 100% organically farmed Zinfandel grapes sourced primarily from the Valle di Sotto Vineyard in Napa Valley's Oak Knoll District AVA. The site benefits from cool morning fog and breezes from San Pablo Bay, allowing for slow ripening and natural acidity preservation. After fermentation, the wine is aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels to integrate fine structural oak tannins and subtle spice notes.