Maryhill Zinfandel (75cl, 14.5%)

Maryhill Zinfandel is a full-bodied red wine from Columbia Valley, Washington, made from 100% Zinfandel. The grapes come from estate Gunkel Vineyards and undergo a five-day pre-fermentation cold soak, native fermentation of about 21 days to full dryness, with only free-run juice collected, then 20 months ageing in new French oak barrels. The nose shows blackberry and cranberry, earth, sandalwood, lavender, toffee, wood spice and black pepper. The palate is lush with ripe blackberry pie fruit and honey sweetness, building to red berries, dark plum, sweet oak, austere tannins and dark chocolate and coffee notes. The finish is warm and generous with coffee, licorice and baking spice. Best served slightly chilled, around 60–65°F, with 15–20 minutes of breathing time.