2012 Fields Family Old Vine Zinfandel The Century Block — medium ruby-garnet color in the glass with delicate dark berry aromas and hints of cedar spice. Juicy blackberry and raspberry flavors predominate along with dusty earth and minerals. An intriguing black tea flavor lingers along with smooth tannins. This wine has that highly desirable combination of light to medium body, elegant flavor and structure punctuated with juicy acidity. The berry flavors are ripe and a bit tart at the same time. It is Zinfandel at its best. Only 10 barrels produced. 14% abv. Wine purchased from Fields Family Wines.
The Century Block vineyard is located on the east side of the Mokelumne River AVA (a sub-AVA of the Lodi Appellation) and was planted in 1905. The 3-acre vineyard is a tiny island among cherry orchards and much younger Zinfandel used for bulk wine production. In winemaker Ryan Sherman’s able hands this wine reflects the very best characteristics of this ancient Zinfandel vineyard and Zinfandel in general.
We enjoyed this wine with a pork roast. It would also be delicious with roasted chicken and root vegetables. It drinks nicely on its own as well and was even more delicious on the second day.
Cheers!
