Freakshow zinfandel 2019 (Michael David Winery)

Drink now or cellar for up to 9 years. No need to decant before serving. Although the Phillips family have been growing fruit and vegetables here in Lodi since the 1860s, the winery was only founded in 1984 by brothers Michael and David. Their project began with just an old press, some barrels and a barn. Over the last few decades the estate has grown to some 800 acres of vineyards and has a reputation for being one of California's most sustainable wineries thanks to their "Lodi Rules" which govern everything from water usage to HR principles. In 2020 the Michael David Winery was named Wine Enthusiast’s American Winery of the Year, but this hasn’t stopped them producing a series of fun, irreverent wines under the Freakshow label. Their Freakshow Zinfandel features a fire breather on the label, a reference to the intense nature of this sunkissed California red. The young wine is matured in American and French oak barrels for 12 months, adding polish and complexity to Zinfandel’s naturally luscious dark fruit character. On the nose there’s a plethora of berry notes, with cassis, blackberry and cherry mingling with hints of toast, cedar, anise and woodsmoke. The first sip is bold and powerful with a full body, firm tannins and a soft, smooth texture leading on to a lengthy finish with plenty of spice. The delicate balance between fiery intensity and rich, soft fruit makes this a great wine to serve with tomato-based pasta, pizzas or charcuterie.