The Zinfandel grape itself has its roots deep in Californian soil. Originating from Croatia, it found its true home in the Golden State, becoming almost synonymous with it. The 2020 vintage showcases how resilient and adaptable this grape truly is. The year brought along a moderate summer followed by a cooler harvest season, resulting in a prolonged ripening period that allowed for the development of intricate flavors. A Dive into the Brand’s Legacy: American Zinfandel producers have generally broken free from the constant comparisons with the old-world (something that happens with other reds like Cabernet Sauvignon), and this has resulted in more room for innovation, as well as longer ripening times that tend to increase sugar and alcohol content in American wines. How to Serve 1000 Stories Zinfandel? Over the years, 1000 Stories has not just been a brand but a beacon for innovation in the wine industry. It has consistently challenged the status quo, asking the pivotal question: What if? This spirit of inquiry, combined with a relentless pursuit of excellence, has catapulted it to acclaim. And as we pour the 2020 Zinfandel into our glasses, we’re not just sipping wine; we’re partaking in the brand’s storied legacy, one that promises a thousand more tales in the years to come. Tasting Notes of an Epic Tale:

The lots for this red Zin began aging in traditional American and French oak barrels, before spending some time in new Bourbon barrels, which are typically charred. The Bourbon barrels are thus able to impart leathery and smoked characteristics to the wine, adding some more complexity to the jammy core that is commonly associated to red Zinfandels. Finish: As this tale draws to a close, it leaves behind a lingering finish, where the warm embrace of spices and the gentle tannins bid a prolonged farewell. It’s a testament to the wine’s balance and complexity, urging you to revisit its stories time and again. Food Pairings: Amerikas historie er fortællinger bygger på utallige historier om hårdt arbejde og vedholdenhed, og den lever videre i dag i enhver amerikaner og fortsætter med at være på essensen af Amerikas karakter. Dette er inspiration til vinen ”1000 Stories”. Venturing into the vibrant world of the 2020 1000 Stories Zinfandel is like opening an aged leather-bound book of Californian tales. Right from the first pour, the wine paints a vivid narrative of the state’s sun-drenched vineyards, reminiscent of the pioneering spirit. Furthermore, the wine’s name isn’t just a catchy title; it encapsulates the countless narratives intertwined with every vintage. Drawing from vineyards steeped in history, this Zinfandel offers not just a taste but an experience. As you swirl and sip, picture the labor, love, and lore that’s been poured into each bottle. Here, tradition meets innovation, telling the old stories of California winemaking with a fresh twist. Embrace the journey and let the 2020 1000 Stories guide your next wine adventure. Label Artwork Analysis: Stories Zinfandel produceres i små mængder - ligesom premium Bourbon. Druerne kommer fra Mendocino County, hvor nogle af markerne har historie helt tilbage til 1880‘erne.The Process: After the Zinfandel completes its initial aging in traditional wine barrels, it undergoes an additional aging process in bourbon barrels. These barrels, previously housing bourbon, retain the spirit’s character — hints of caramel, vanilla, and smoky undertones. The taste is well-balanced, dry, and creamy. Dark cherry and forest berries in the palate, followed by smoke and notes of chocolate. Somewhat sweet in the middle, when the bourbon and the oak clearly come through, although it is nothing over the top. You can also sense firm tannins throughout the sip. The more subdued red fruit notes mix well with the smoke and vanilla, leaving a nice degree of acidity behind it. Finish Local Wine Retailers: Start your search at neighborhood wine shops or liquor stores. Given its unique taste, the 2020 1000 Stories Zinfandel can often be found at local establishments. The art of wine-making often intertwines with tradition, yet innovation knows no bounds. Enter the 2020 1000 Stories Zinfandel, a wine that takes a bold, uncharted path by embracing the influence of bourbon barrels.

Pasta and Red Sauces: A spicy arrabbiata or classic Bolognese will dance harmoniously with this Zinfandel’s boldness. Stories Zinfandel is produced in California and sold in small batches, much like craft spirits and beers. The careful grape blend is also 100% made in California and comes from old head-trained Zinfandel vines in Mendocino County (4%), the so-called capital of Zinfandel Lodi (15%) and Paso Robles vineyards (10%). Lastly, 1000 Stories has added some Petite Sirah from Lake County to the blend to add color and spice. The year 2020 will forever be etched in the annals of history, not just for global events but for its influence on vineyards across the world. In California, the vineyards faced nature’s wrath in the form of wildfires, which, contrary to what one might assume, added an extra layer of depth to some wines. This Zinfandel was no exception. It thrived and matured under these conditions, almost as if drawing strength from adversity. On that note, I was glad to find out that this is not just about the connotations of the Zinfandel as an American symbol; apparently, 1000 Stories supports the Wildlife Conservation Society and its efforts to increase the free-range bison herd in North America, which is of course a nice perk in the feel-good department. AromaMosten lagrer traditionelt på franske og amerikanske fade samt bourbonfade, hvilket bidrager med vanilje, tørrede urter og en antydning af karamel. Intens hindbær i næsen med sort peber og et strejf af nelliker og tørrede urter.

BBQ Delights:Smoked brisket, barbecued ribs, or grilled sausages marry beautifully with the wine’s smoky undertones. Stories is no stranger to innovation. Their wines stand as testaments to the art of bourbon barrel-aging, a process that lends an audacious twist to the traditional wine-making method. It’s an intricate ballet of patience and prowess where charred bourbon barrels from some of America’s revered distilleries cradle the Zinfandel, imparting it with unique undertones and a character that’s unmistakably bold yet nuanced.Local Restaurants: Hoping to pair it with a delightful meal? Upscale restaurants with a curated wine list might offer the 2020 1000 Stories Zinfandel. Just scan through their selection or ask their sommelier. The Critic’s Verdict: The 1000 Stories Zinfandel alcohol content is 14.5%. This is relatively low thinking of how some Zins can reach 17%. I find this a crucial factor in explaining why it just works without being strident and hot like some other red Zinfandels. Now, this also implies considerable sweetness, with 6.0 grams of sugar per liter. Conclusion Finally, the wine is transferred to another set of old Bourbon barrels that have already been used by “some of America’s most celebrated distilleries”, according to the brand. This is thought to perfect the fruity body of the wine with added spice. Where Is 1000 Stories Zinfandel Made? Druerne fra de enkelte marker presses individuelt og mosten lagrer traditionelt på franske og amerikanske fade. En del af mosten lagres på nye borbonfade for derefter at blive blended i vinen. Dette unikke træk udvider smagsprofilen med tonerne fra de forkullede bourbonfade - vanilje, tørrede urter og en antydning af karamel. Once open, try to consume it in 4-6 days while the wine is still fresh. This shorter period is due to the alcohol and tannin levels in Zinfandels. How Many Calories Does 1000 Stories Zinfandel Have?