2017 Michael David Gluttony Old Vine Zinfandel

Michael David Winery was founded by brothers Michael and David Phillips, who are fifth generation grape growers in Lodi. Today younger generations also help run the family operation along with the brothers. Derek DeVries is winemaker. The winery makes several labels, a couple of them fanciful in spirit. The various wine groups include Freakshow, Seven Deadly, Earthquake, Inkblot and the eponymous Michael David label. The estate makes primarily red wine, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petit Sirah, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

Sierra Foothills AVA is in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and it includes parts of eight counties. With total acreage of 2.6 million acres, and nearly 6,000 vineyard acres, it is one of the largest appellations in California. Wine grapes were planted in the foothills during the Gold Rush in the mid-19th century and the appellation was officially recognized in 1987. There are five sub-appellations within the Sierra Foothills region, and more than 100 wineries, most small and family-owned. Zinfandel is the most successful wine grape in this region, though Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are also planted.

Zinfandel is a black-skinned grape, but 85% of the wine produced is made into a rosy “White Zinfandel.” Red Zin is far more complex and bold, while still being light-bodied. It grows in popularity as winemakers continue to experiment with new styles and blends.