An Aussie zinfandel. Now, you don’t see too many of those. It’s the same variety used in Primitivo in southern Italy. I recall from my earlier WSET studies being presented with archetypal zinfandels from the Napa Valley – 17%abv and full of spiky chocolate and raisins. Too much. Then while over in North America, I tried a few, and my conclusion was very different. A couple of zinfandels from Caymus Vineyards in the Napa Valley in particular had a balance and texture that I was very impressed with (see the 2012 and 2011 reviews). The Napa Valley producers seem able to get a texture into their tannins that I don’t see so much here.
This particular zinfandel is a really good one from Lowe in Mudgee. The alcohol has been pared right back to 13.1%abv, which is quite unzin, but works here. It has aromatics of chocolate, licorice and currants. The palate has long length, is not quite full bodied and has a lovely balance to it. Fresh for a zinfandel, this is an enjoyable release.
Rating: Very Good
Abv: 13.1%
Price: $75
Source: sample
Vendors and website: http://www.lowewine.com.au
Tasted: 2016