The Origin:
Old Ghost Zinfandel represents the finest Old Vine Zinfandel that Klinker Brick produces each year. The name was derived from the Tule Fog rising from the ground during the winter in Lodi, which keeps the vineyards moist and cool, and also bestows a ghostly appearance in the vineyard. These 100 year old ancient vines yield less than one ton per acre, providing the wine its ethereal and concentrated dark fruit qualities. Given the incredible longevity of these vineyards, we believe that the Old Ghost tends to them on our behalf, producing wine that will satisfy any collector for years to come.
The Winemaking:
Grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted before gentle de-stemming and crushing directly into French and American Oak barrels. Fermentation in oak lasts 14 days, during which time, the fruit is exposed to oak early in its life-cycle creating subtle oak flavors and exposure to oxygen in order to soften tannins. Post-fermentation, the wine is allowed to macerate on skins for 10 days, leading to its opaque, ruby-red color. The wine is then racked off and allowed to age for 18 months.
The Flavor:
An intense nose of spice, chocolate and botanicals lead to full-bodied flavors of juicy pomegranate and ripe cherry layered with dried herbs. True to the Klinker Brick style, this wine is bursting with acidity and concentrated notes of dark berries and tobacco. Layers of complexity lead to a core of medium tannins with a long, richly textured finish.
Awards:
90 points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine - (2017 & 2019 Vintage)
91 points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine - (2018 & 2020 Vintage)
Pairings:
Pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables and charcuterie.