6 Months in 35% new French oak is used, with a medium toast level, which contributes a delicate toasty vanilla character to the wine without masking the abundant fruit. Severe selection criteria and master blending show in the final product, which showcases a wide array of dark berry fruit including black cherry and strawberry. Additionally, spice notes and a lasting finish of vanilla from oak aging and firm, supple tannins add complexity to this wine. This wine is ready to drink now and will continue to develop complexity over the next three to four years.

It pairs well with charcuterie, gumbo or grilled steak.

Selecting fruit for the Lodi Zinfandel program is a daunting task; the primary focus is harmony, with an emphasis on early drinkability and an elegant structure. The grapes come from the famous Zinfandel growing area of Lodi where warm days and cool nights have ripened Zinfandel to perfection for over 100 years.

Cline Cellars is owned by Nancy Cline. Both her grandfathers were from Ireland, Gregory Laughlin in County Cork and Bunting from Lurgan, Co Armagh. Both emigrated around 1878 and settled, respectively in Berkley California and Kansas City. The Cline family have maintained regular contact with remaining family and continue to visit the Laughlin and Bunting families today.