Grilling, spicy, supple.

It's been years since I've reviewed the Gnarly Head, a wine named for the gnarled bush (or head pruned) vines typical in older California Zinfandel vineyards.
It seems pretty consistent and the 2018 vintage offers smoked paprika, sour cherries, vanilla, blackberries, cinnamon, clove, star anise and black peppercorns atop mocha and saddle leather.
A supple entry sets the tone for generous flavours of chocolate covered cherries, baking spice, coffee, pipe tobacco and hints of soy sauce. Sweet plush fruit, a silky texture and ripe tannins are all in check.
A Zin to pair with sweet and spicy ribs, chilidogs, pizza or grilled burgers.
Keep an eye out for a chance to win a professional grade Napoleon Barbecue this summer, starting June 15th, in a partnership campaign called Summer Just Got Lit with Gnarly Head and Canadian owned Napoleon Grills.
©copyright 2021 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - May 30th, 2021