Californian Zinfandel has to be as close to American red wine royalty as it can get! It is after all as close to being ‘American’ as are a Burger & Fries. Originating from Italy where it is known as Primitivo, Californian Zinfandels are known for being big on fruit, alcohol and oak. The Outpost 2004 Zinfandel doesn’t lack any of those elements yet with the benefit of eight years bottle age this one is likely to be more palatable to some than a much younger vintage.
In the glass an ageing cherry red colour has an aroma that is full of cedar and oak with hints of subtle fruit and spice. This wine is drinking pretty much at its peak now and I can’t see it lasting more than another two years so no need to buy this for the cellar. It is however a great guide to how long a good Zin should be kept for as they have nowhere near the life of other premium reds. On the flip side of that though is that at least it doesn’t take 15-20 years of patience before you can enjoy a good Zin at its best. Some may even prefer them more youthful and, being a fruit and oak driven wine, they pair best with BBQ’d meats, Burgers and Ribs as well as some sharp cheeses!
Outpost 2004 Howell Mountain Zinfandel
Price - $63 from Grand Central Cellars
Region - Howell Mountain, California
Final Sip - Given the lack of good California Zinfandels here in Australia the ability to get one that even the locals love, with some bottle age, for less than some premium Aussie Zin's are going for is a rare treat!
