Mettler Vineyards Epicenter Old Vine Zinfandel (75cl, 14.5%)

A red wine from Lodi, California, made by Mettler Family Vineyards in the Mokelumne River sub-appellation. The blend is 85% Zinfandel from vines averaging 50 years of age, with 10% Petite Sirah, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 80% American oak and 20% French oak. The nose opens with ripe wild blueberry and blackberry, then espresso, black pepper and dried herbs, with traces of wild sage and bay leaf. The palate is dense and velvety with mulled plum and dark berry fruit, then dark chocolate and vanilla, balanced by firm tannins and bright acidity, with tar and tobacco at the peak. The finish is long and layered with dark chocolate, ripe berry and peppery warmth.