OZV Red Blend 2014
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2018-
Wilfred
Wong
The flagship brand of Oak Ridge Winery, OZV “Old Zin Vines,” represents the literal and figurative roots of the Lodi appellation and the Maggio family. Crafted from estate vines with an average age of fifty years, these wines exude the unique character of the Lodi terroir and honor a long wine-growing heritage.
Originally built in 1934, Oak Ridge Winery operated for many years as a winemaking cooperative. The winery was purchased by Rudy Maggio, a third-generation winegrower in 2002 and his three daughters continue to oversee operations today. The Maggio family has called Lodi home for over 100 years and takes pride in their role as stewards of the land. All of their 2,500 acres of estate vineyards are farmed in accordance with LODI RULES, a third-party sustainability certification created for the Lodi Appellation that signifies a commitment to rigorous, scientifically-sound sustainable winegrowing.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!