Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Oak Ridge Winery – Ancient Vine Zinfandel 2022
Lodi, California – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
Sourced from some of Lodi’s most treasured old vines, this estate-grown Zinfandel reflects the depth and concentration that the region is famous for. Oak Ridge, Lodi’s oldest operating winery, has a long legacy of showcasing Zinfandel as the signature grape of California’s Central Valley.

Aromas & Flavors
On the nose, rich waves of red plum and boysenberry mingle with cracked black peppercorn and a touch of toasty oak. The palate follows with flavors of baked raspberry–blueberry pie, layered with star anise, cardamom, and a subtle lift of candied lemon zest on the finish.

Mouthfeel
Lush and concentrated with a medium-plus to full body, ripe tannins, and a smooth texture. The spice notes add complexity, while the fruit-driven core keeps it approachable and vibrant.

Food Pairing
Ideal with BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, or smoky pulled pork. For a vegetarian option, try it with roasted eggplant or spicy black bean chili—this Zin loves bold flavors.

The Verdict
A bold yet balanced Zinfandel that speaks to Lodi’s heritage of ancient vines. Fruit-forward with just the right amount of spice and oak, it’s a crowd-pleasing red that delivers far beyond its approachable style.

✨ Personal Highlight
This bottling reminds me why Lodi’s “Ancient Vine” Zins are so beloved—they capture both power and charm in the glass, making them perfect for hearty meals or a cozy evening sip. Cheers! — 22 days ago

Sipping Fine Wine

9.1

Crafted by Joseph J. Wagner, 4th generation winemaker, with winemaking roots in the Napa Valley since 1906. Deep Ruby with red berry fruit aromas, tea and sweet spice notes. On the palate flavors of jammy blackberry and cherry with pronounced sweet vanilla oak, cacao and pepper spice notes. Soft tannins and bright acidity, well balanced, with mineral tones on a long finish ending with toasty spice! Nice! — 7 months ago

Jocholla

8.9

Solid Napa Cab. Good fruit, slightly thinner than I’d hoped for but would buy again. — 9 months ago

Katie Pierce

9.5

Good fruit flavor but still super dry! Very enjoyable! — 3 months ago

with Janet

Randy Fuller

9.3

This wine has a faint yellow tint in the glass. It gives up intense herbal aromas, very grassy. The palate has a fresh acidity and is loaded with grapefruit and gooseberry, heavy on the citrus. The grassy, herbal feel carries on in the lengthy finish. Pair it easily with any sort of seafood, especially something fried. — 5 months ago

Nick DiSanto

9.0

WRW 2-15-25 — 8 months ago

Peter Heyboer

9.0

Jammy dark fruit, some barrel aromas and flavors. Pretty complex and enough tannin to keep you from getting overwhelmed. Great sipper for the price point! Would buy again. — 3 months ago

with Matthew, Ethan and 2 others

David Burke

9.0

Soft, fruity but not sweet. Not big but enjoyable — 7 months ago

Kevin Murphy

9.6

Very mellow cab. Should pair nicely with anything. — 7 months ago

Jason

9.0

Good. Buy again — 9 months ago