Monte Rio Cellars Old Vines Zinfandel 2023

Profile & Story

Monte Rio Cellars is the project of winemaker Patrick Cappiello, a longtime sommelier who began making wine in 2018 with guidance from business partner Pax Mahle; the winery farms organically with no additives, focusing on heritage California varieties from some of Northern California's oldest vineyard sites. This Old Vines Zinfandel is sourced from the Royal T, Marians, Faith and Teresi vineyards in Lodi, planted with organically farmed vines 85-120 years old, and fermented with 100% whole clusters for 10 days in stainless steel using natural yeast before aging 10 months in old wood barrels.

Pairing Recommendation

The winery suggests pairing it with steak frites or smash burgers.