2021 Gamba Family Zinfandel 'Family Ranches'

100% Zinfandel sourced from several old vine blocks, dating as far back as 1900, and select smaller, younger vine blocks, all organically grown, dry farmed and hand harvested. The lots are fermented separately and blended later. Aged for 18 months in 80% American and 20% French oak.  Only 650 cases made. 15.7% alcohol. Pours a dark, almost opaque garnet color. Full-bodied, opulent, unctuous and a total decadent, hedonistic and intellectual turn-on, this wine should continue to offer great drinking for at least a decade.  It’s full of ripe, dark blackberry jam, plum, raspberry, cherry- the whole berry basket!- and lusciously chocolately oak notes, with spicy pepper, clove and oak spice adding complexity. Super smooth and velvety on the palate, mouthcoating and very long. This is a little known cult producer that’s a personal favorite of Robert Parker.