2023 'Maggio' Old Vine Zinfandel, Oak Ridge Winery

Velvet & Smoke

Deep, generous and gloriously full of Californian warmth, this old vine Zinfandel is all about richness with just enough restraint to keep it seriously drinkable. Ripe black cherry, bramble and plum fruit lead the way, wrapped in subtle notes of dark chocolate, blackberry jam and warm spice. The palate is supple and smooth, with a rounded, easy texture that lets the fruit take centre stage, while a gentle smoky note on the finish adds just enough savoury depth to keep everything grounded. Plush, comforting and full of old-vine character, this is a red that knows exactly how to please.

For when: the grill is going, the evening is stretching out, and something rich feels entirely right.
Pairs with: sticky barbecue ribs, burgers, smoky sausages, or a big slab of slow-cooked beef.
If this wine were a place: a late summer evening in California, with warm air, glowing skies and smoke rising from the barbecue.

Oak Ridge Winery has deep roots in Lodi, where old vine Zinfandel has long been one of the region’s defining strengths. The fruit for Maggio comes from estate vineyards spread across this warm, Mediterranean-influenced part of California, where hot days and cooling evening breezes help create wines with both ripeness and balance. Some of the vines are over a century old, their low yields giving the wine its concentration, depth and unmistakable sense of heritage.