Windstorm Zinfandel Old Vine 2021

Region: Lodi, California

Grape Variety: Zinfandel

graham crackers, stewed black cherries, black raspberries, cold black tea and caramel

The Windstorm wines are created by Trevor Sheehan, whose family was deeply involved in the film industry in Hollywood. While finishing his masters degree in accounting he had a chance meeting with Jay Leno, who commented, “Ah accounting! The fast cars, the thrills, the travel to exotic locations.” This started him thinking about his career choice and within a couple of years he pivoted to wine. Ten years ago he launched the Precision Wine Company, which produces a bunch of wine under various labels. For Windstorm both of these wines are appellation specific, which is very uncommon for $15 wines.

The Zinfandel is produced from old vines farmed in the Lodi appellation of central California. Lodi is a very interesting region, lying south of Sacramento in the estuary of the San Joaquin River. This area was primarily established by Italian settlers who came for the Gold Rush in the mid-1800’s. Eventually many planted vines with Zinfandel being the local favorite. The Zinfandel from Windstorm is blended with 20% Petite Sirah and aged in American oak barrels for 10 months. After a few minutes in the decanter this wine shows a rich nose of graham crackers, stewed black cherries, black raspberries, cold black tea and caramel. On the palate it is plump and soft, with the copious fruit framed with bitter orange peel and dusty tannins. Drink 2024 to 2026 with baby back ribs, pulled pork or fajitas.