2016 Zinfandel Zin-Phomanic Cellars

Everything is alright about this old vine Zin from Lodi, CA. But that darn label is bothersome. O.K. it’s hot, but this bottle’s label mimics the Marilyn Monroe wine series. Let’s look at both printed labels: #1 is this Zin-Phomanic corporate label

#2. Compare against the Marilyn Corporate label

Both pictures grab your attention. However, the Marilyn label had peel off layer. The buyer was able to remove her cover-up garment. And then her complete and original Playboy Magazine nude photo was revealed. This label is similar with an attractive lady covered by grape leaves. However, there is no peeling off grape leaves from its label. It does its job for a quickie grab. Oh, what about the wine? This Old Vine is to “zin” for. The pour starts with a fruity blackberry nose. First taste in cherry followed by mocha. The Zin has complexities: some sage, slate, etc. It finishes with a light prune tannin, rather than traditional oak. You’ll want to drink more of this old vine Zin. This winemaker stuck in a genuine cork, which means you can store the bottle for several years. The fun bottle opens several choices: drink-it-now; put away a few in your cellar, even gift it. Serving it with a pairing is good, too.