2021 Aurelia Cellars Lodi, California Zinfandel

Is there a capital of Zinfandel? The capital of Riesling is Germany, and the capital of Sangiovese is Italy. But what about Zinfandel, the red variety that delights the palate with its pepper-sprinkled fruit flavors?

Many would assert that the Lodi district is the Zin capital because its vineyards produce about 40 percent of the premium Zinfandel in California... and because Lodi Zin has characteristics that appeal to aficionados and everyday wine drinkers alike.

In Lodi, many of the old-growth Zinfandel vineyards feature non-grafted, non-trellised vines that grow free like trees. The older vineyards are close to the banks of the Mokelumne River, where the soil is fine sandy loam. The unique growing style and soil composition produce the bold, intense flavor that Lodi Zinfandel in general and Aurelia Cellars Zin in particular are noted for. Taste the 2021 vintage, and you’ll understand how special Lodi Zin is.