2005 Klinker Brick Winery Zinfandel "Old Ghost"

Winery: Klinker Brick Winery

Vintage: 2005

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Old Ghost"

Wine Category: Zinfandel

Grape blend: 100% Zinfandel

Region: Lodi

State or country: CA

Price: $37

Cases produced: 1,800

KWG Score: 88.5 (based on 2 reviews)

Average Virtual Score: 92 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (93.99-90)

Review date: April 11, 2008

Wine Review: This winery was a new discovery for me in the ZAP area at the NY Wine Expo. This “Old Vine” Zinfandel from Lodi really caught my attention. It’s a very dark translucent purple wine in color. It opens with a fruit forward spicy blackberry and anise like bouquet. On the palate, this wine is round, a touch acidic, with concentrated and lush spicy blackberry flavors. The finish is quite dry and tannic. It also lingers for a while. I really enjoyed this Zin and I am certain you will as well. Cheers, Ken

Winemaker Notes: The 2005 Old Ghost is making its grand appearance August 1. This particular vintage was extraordinary with one of the longest growing seasons in Lodi's history. Grapes were harvested during the latter part of October from a 93-year old vineyard and the yields were slightly under a ton per acre. The additional "hang time" and even ripening period produced delicious fruit for a wine that is a veritable layer cake of flavors: brambleberry, spiced cherries, plums, chocolate, cola and a nuance of mint and licorice. This is a big wine with depth and body. We believe that the 2005 vintage is the best we have produced to date.

Organic status: not organic