# Three Finger Jack Old Vine Zinfandel (2023)

- **Producer:** Delicato Family Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zinfandel, Petite Sirah
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, blackberry, blueberry, black pepper, vanilla, toast, chocolate, smoke, coconut, dried fig, prune, cedar

## About this wine

Three Finger Jack Old Vine Zinfandel is inspired by the legendary gold-seeking outlaw who roamed the rugged Sierra Nevada foothills during the mid-1800s. Crafted by Delicato Family Wines, a historic fourth-generation family-owned winery established in 1924, this wine pays homage to California's pioneering spirit. The grapes are sourced from select old-vine vineyards in the Lodi AVA, where well-draining, stony soils naturally restrict vine yields, resulting in highly concentrated fruit. Lodi's Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm days and cooling delta breezes, allows these historic vines—some of which are over a century old—to develop exceptional depth and character while retaining balanced natural acidity.

## Interesting facts

- Named after Three Finger Jack, a legendary outlaw who roamed the Sierra Nevada foothills during the 1850s Gold Rush.
- Sourced from old-vine parcels in Lodi, with some vines dating back to 1888.
- Delicato Family Wines, the producer, was founded in 1924 and is a fourth-generation family-owned winery.

## Food pairing

This full-bodied, fruit-forward Zinfandel pairs exceptionally well with rich, smoky, and charred foods. The wine's moderate tannins and ripe fruit profile complement the caramelized crust of barbecued meats, while its balanced acidity cuts through the richness of game and stews. The subtle sweetness of the fruit also harmonizes beautifully with sweet-and-savory profiles like Korean BBQ.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for this Old Vine Zinfandel focuses on preserving the vibrant fruit character of the historic Lodi vines. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes are carefully destemmed and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. This cool fermentation approach is designed to gently extract color and flavor while avoiding harsh, bitter seed tannins. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 10 to 12 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels, which integrates the structure and adds subtle complexity before final blending and bottling.