Zinfandel, 2018. Manifesto

This Zinfandel comes from Manifesto wines and is part of the Folktale wine group. Founded in 2007, Manifesto prides itself in making "fine wine for the people". They committed to making authentic, food friendly, everyday wines that still showcase the personality of each varietal. The grapes are sustainably farmed, and the wines are made to express balance and refinement. These are the kind of wines that will enhance dinner at home every night.

Zinfandel is California's pride and joy. It is zesty, spicy, often higher in alcohol, and fits in with the frontier spirit of the state. The grape is believed to be related to some Croatian varieties, while in Italy it goes by the name Primitivo. Lodi is famous for this grape, as there are many "old vine" plantings that can be more than one hundred years old. In 1884, Zinfandel was the most popular California red, however its popularity has fallen dramatically since then. Thanks to the winemakers, like the team at Manifesto, the grape is swinging back into popularity.

In the glass, this wine is a dusty violet color. Intense aromas of strawberry candies, whipped cream, and vanilla custard jump out of the glass. The palate is supple, bright, and fruity. It has a light-to-medium body and a tingling, interesting, medium-length chocolate biscuit finish with heavy oak flavor. This is a creamy Zinfandel shrouded in vanilla-centric oak. Pair this wine with your favorite cool-weather comfort foods, such as pot roast or steak and potatoes. It will even pair well with a hearty bowl of beef stew. For vegetarian fare, pair this Zinfandel with ratatouille, eggplant parmigiana, or a tomato-based pasta.

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