The next wine I'm looking at during The 12 Days of Zin is the first of several to be made from fruit sourced in Amador County. Zinfandel happens to be the grape that Amador is best known for. Lang Wines is a boutique producer that also makes Barbera & Syrah each year. Their entire production is right around 1,500 cases annually.
The 2006 Lang Wines Zinfandel is made from fruit sourced at Oakmont Vineyards. These Zinfandel vines are 35 years old. 868 cases of this wine were produced. It sells through their website for $192 per case ($16 per bottle).
The nose of this wine features a cornucopia of berry fruit notes. Blackberry and dark cherry particularly stand out, underscored by subtle gingerbread spice notes. Copious fruit notes fill what is a solid, balanced, full and unyielding palate. From the very first sip luscious berry pie flavors fill this wines palate. Mocha and toasty oak notes which are apparent throughout come out more prominently on the finish. This wine has good tannic structure and solid acidity. This will pair well with just about any meat coming off of your grill as well as a dish of pasta. I also found it to be a real pleasure to drink on its own.
What I like best about this particular Zinfandel is how concurrently smooth and opulent it is from start to finish. There isn't a rough edge to be found anywhere. As I was drinking this wine I was thinking that it reminded of the title of a Howlin' Wolf song, "Built For Comfort." That's exactly how I view this wine, an absolute treat to drink. For the money this wine is an absolute steal. It's easy to see why the Lang Wines website emphasizes case sales. It's likely that if you're a Zin lover you're going to want to a steady supply of this offering.
I'll be looking at their Syrah and Barbera in the near future as well. If they're anywhere near as impressive as the Zinfandel, they'll be wines to look out for as well.
Up Next: The 12 Days of Zin Continues!
Check out ZAP The Group dedicated to Zinfandel.
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