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:

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 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. Stories Zinfandel is a full-bodied red wine uniquely crafted in Mendocino County, California. Produced only in small batches that allow for careful management, both in and out of the cellar, this deep and well-balanced Zin starts its journey in traditional French and American oak barrels. 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. 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:Afslutningsvis lagres al mosten på gamle bourbonfade fra berømte destillerier såsom Heaven Hill og Four Roses. Nogle af disse fade er op mod 13 år gammel single-use fade, der anvendes til den højeste kvalitet bourbon. 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 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?

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. It’s easy to assume that 1000 Stories is just about the bourbon barrels, but the brand’s legacy is interwoven with much more. From ensuring sustainable practices—like water reclamation and encouraging natural predators to manage pests—to supporting wildlife preservation, the ethos of 1000 Stories extends beyond the wine itself. 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. Sight: Holding this elixir up to the light reveals a mesmerizing hue reminiscent of twilight’s embrace. Deep ruby with a hint of magenta at its edges, it’s like peering into a fabled past while anticipating the tales yet to be told. 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

Bourbon Barrel-Aged:

Stepping into the world of Zinfandels, especially one as layered as the 2020 1000 Stories, might leave one yearning to get their hands on a bottle (or a few). And why not? Each sip tells a tale, a culmination of earth, air, fire, and passion. BBQ Delights:Smoked brisket, barbecued ribs, or grilled sausages marry beautifully with the wine’s smoky undertones. 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?