From: Lodi, California, US
Blend: 80% Zinfandel, 10% Syrah, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petite Sirah
Tasting Notes: The blend started by barrel sampling through 16 different lots of Zinfandel and choosing two that were exemplary of the varietal and vintage. The Costa Zin was selected for its acidity, red fruit and spicy pepper with an elegant finish. The Burney Mettler was the opposite - big dark fruit with firm tannins and bold structure. The wines were then blended equally. In the cellar, Klinker Brick added their barrel-fermented Syrah to bring additional depth and toasty vanilla aromas. Cabernet was then incorporated, which encouraged the reemergence of dark fruits and round tannins. Finally, Petite Sirah was added to enhance color and the structural integrity of the blend as well as give the wine aromas of blueberries with a hint of licorice.
Pairing: Barbecue ribs or chicken, either dry-rubbed or sauced would be a divine pairing. As would aged cheese mac and cheese and/or grilled vegetables.
Nestled in the heart of Lodi’s most prestigious Mokelumne AVA, sit 750 acres of estate vineyards, many of which have been farmed consistently by the Felten family for 6 generations. The soils are comprised of deep granite sandy loam, giving wines of this region a distinctive minerality. Situated at the edge of the Sacramento Delta, Pacific breezes gust through the Mokelumne AVA, cooling grapes, and creating a Mediterranean climate ideally suited for growing varietals such as Zinfandel, Syrah, and Albarino. Deeply committed to preserving the family’s ancient vineyards, Steve Felten founded Klinker Brick Winery in 2000 and is succeeded by daughter Farrah in ownership. An extension of the family is head winemaker Joseph Smith. Originally from Belize, Joe fell in love with wine after working crush in California in the early nineties. He has had a hand in every vintage of Klinker Brick, masterfully highlighting subtle terroir nuances and taming the robust fruit flavors indicative of the region with acidity and balance.
