Cline Family Cellars Live Oak Zinfandel

Unveiling Cline Family Cellars Live Oak Zinfandel: A Journey Through the Heart of Oakley

Cline Family Cellars Live Oak Zinfandel transcends the realm of a mere bottle of wine. It's a captivating tapestry woven from sun-drenched Californian terroir, generations of winemaking tradition, and the Cline family's unwavering passion for crafting exceptional Zinfandels. This single-vineyard gem, named for Live Oak Road that borders its ancient vines, embodies the quintessential "big Zinfandels" that have earned Cline Cellars its illustrious reputation. But beneath its bold personality lies a symphony of nuanced flavours, intricate textures, and a story waiting to be uncorked.

A Feast for the Senses: Exploring the Live Oak Zinfandel's Depths

Visual: The very first glimpse of Live Oak Zinfandel is an invitation – a deep ruby hue that promises richness and intensity. As you swirl the wine in the glass, its viscosity becomes evident, hinting at the concentrated flavours to come.

Aroma: The aromatic profile is a vibrant explosion of dark berries. Imagine juicy raspberries, sun-warmed strawberries, and tangy cranberries, playfully interwoven with hints of coffee, adding a touch of earthy intrigue. This is just the beginning – as the wine opens up, whispers of exotic spice, like cardamom or star anise, emerge, adding another layer of complexity.

Palate: The first sip is a revelation. The fruit basket from the nose explodes on the palate, with ripe raspberries and sweet mocha taking centre stage. Lingering notes of strawberry and dried cranberry provide a delightful counterpoint. A touch of elegance is introduced by a whisper of exotic spice, like cardamom or star anise. The smooth, fine-grained tannins provide a touch of structure and grip, ensuring a balanced and lingering finish.

Beyond the Grapes: The Story Behind the Wine

The exceptional character of Live Oak Zinfandel is deeply rooted in its unique origins. The vines, gnarled and wise with age, trace their roots back to the early 20th century, planted by Italian and Portuguese immigrants who brought their love for Zinfandel to California. These head-pruned, dry-farmed vines whisper stories of resilience and adaptation, drawing strength from the Oakley terroir's unique characteristics.

Oakley, situated in Contra Costa County, boasts a climate of hot sun, sandy soil, and a cooling embrace from the nearby Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers. These contrasting elements – heat and coolness – create a microclimate that stresses the vines, concentrating the flavours in the grapes. The Cline family's commitment to sustainable practices, including dry-farming, further intensifies the fruit's concentration.

Crafted with Passion: The Cline Cellars Winemaking Philosophy

The Cline family meticulously crafts Live Oak Zinfandel to preserve the essence of the grapes and the vineyard's terroir. The fruit is almost entirely de-stemmed and lightly crushed, allowing for maximum expression of the fruit character. A majority undergoes whole bunch fermentation in stainless steel tanks, a technique that adds complexity and structure to the wine. The wine is then aged for 8 months in 40% new, medium-toast French oak barrels. This ageing process imparts subtle notes of vanilla and spice, complementing the fruit's vibrancy without overpowering it.

Food Pairings: Bringing Out the Best in Live Oak Zinfandel

Live Oak Zinfandel's bold personality calls for equally robust flavours on the plate. Here are some perfect food pairings to elevate your dining experience:

• Rare Prime Rib: The rich, marbled flavour of rare prime rib is a perfect match for Live Oak Zinfandel's bold fruit and structured tannins. The wine cuts through the fat of the meat, leaving a clean and balanced finish.
• Roasted Pork Tenderloin: Similar to prime rib, roasted pork tenderloin's rich flavour profile is beautifully complemented by Live Oak Zinfandel. The wine's acidity balances the sweetness of the glaze or sauce, while the tannins stand up to the richness of the pork.
• Chili Con Carne: A hearty chili con carne is another fantastic match for Live Oak Zinfandel. The wine's spicy fruit notes mirror the chili's heat, while its richness complements the depth of flavour in the dish.
• Mature Cheddar Cheese: For a more casual pairing, consider mature cheddar cheese. The sharpness of the cheese cuts through the wine's fruitiness, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavours.

Live Oak Zinfandel: A Celebration of Californian Zinfandel

Live Oak Zinfandel is more than just a wine; it's an experience. It's a journey through the heart of Oakley, a testament to generations of winemaking tradition, and a celebration of the Cline family's dedication to quality. So, uncork a bottle, savour the vibrant flavours, and let Live Oak Zinfandel take you on a delightful