Fall has been with us for over a month now, and for those who can’t wait to get out on the “cool patio”, skipping the chilled white wine for a sumptuous Zinfandel is an easy choice. So when you’re getting ready to go out and grill a big batch of something like “Chicken on the Barbie”, don’t forget to open up a good Zin.
But there are so many Zins that are simply too big even for red wine lovers, but if you pick one that has a good attitude of “refinement”, things will go perfectly. Near the top of this list is a wine produced by Ancient Peaks of Paso Robles California.
Their 2016 Zinfandel is fruity and fresh on the bouquet with plenty of cherry (actually quite “Pinotesque”) and vanilla-cocoa that is not lost to the other things (breezes, BBQ smoke, etc.) that are happening outdoors. Following up in the mouth with briary berries and a long complex dark spice finish, this gem boasts a well-defined acidity balance that combines with BBQ fare seamlessly.
Note that Ancient Peak’s wines are treated to a regimen of careful fermentation in small lots that are responsible for the elegance of the end product, not only for their Zins, but also in their production of Bordeaux varietals. Many Zinfandel producers don’t apply the same techniques and that’s why they often get a bad rap for being too overpowering and spicy.
Sometimes this selection can be a little hard to find, but you can order Ancient Peaks Zinfandel at Phoenix area AJs for around $20. Also, they always have it at their Wine Shop. But, even better, if you’re in or around Paso Robles, belly up at their tasting room, as pictured (open every day).
Enjoy, and this Zin will improve on the rack for several more years.