Carol Shelton Old Vine Zinfandel ‘Wild Thing’ 2021, Mendocino County, California

Carol Shelton has been Mastering the Zen of Zin since 1978. Focusing mostly on her favorite varietal, Carol is a guru of single vineyard Zinfandel. California has been the home world class Zin for over a century, making it the benchmark varietal of American wine culture. Old Vine Mendocino Zinfandel is a treasure. Grown on the benchlands and slopes of mountainsides – this 60 plus year old vine Zinfandel was named for these wild- looking vines and also for the uninoculated, or ‘wild,’ yeast ferment that was used to create it. It takes a lot of effort to tame this wild fruit, but it is worth all the trouble. Winemaker’s notes: Aromas of black cherry, ripe plum and raspberry fruit combine with a hint of cigar box, and vanilla-oak baking spice loveliness. Smoothly textured in mouth, and the palate is very creamy and round, with a finish that is long with lush jammy fruit.