✦ Wine Intel

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Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel 2024 is a bold, fruit-forward red wine sourced from some of California's oldest Zinfandel vines — 35 to 85 years old — grown in the Lodi appellation. The brand, launched in 2004 by Delicato Family Wines, set out specifically to craft the biggest, boldest Zinfandel possible from Lodi's iconic head-trained old vines. It is one of California's best-selling and most recognisable Zinfandels, celebrated for its value and generous fruit character.

Gnarly Head (Delicato Family Wines)

Gnarly Head is a value-driven wine label owned by Delicato Family Wines, a family-owned California winery founded in 1924 and operated by four generations of the Indelicato family. Delicato has been named U.S. Wine Producer of the Year an unprecedented three times at the International Wine and Spirits Competition.

Blend

100% Zinfandel (sourced from 35–85 year old head-trained old vines in Lodi, CA)

Tasting Profile

The wine's untamed old vines produce full-flavored grapes dense with aromas of blackberry bramble, juicy plum, and toasted oak. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity and supple tannins, it finishes with luscious dark fruit, a touch of vanilla, mocha, and spice.

Region

Lodi AVA, located east of San Francisco Bay between Sacramento and Stockton, proclaims itself the Zinfandel Capital of the World — over 40% of California's premium Zinfandel vineyards are here, with some plantings dating back as far as 1888. The region's warm days and cool delta breezes allow grapes to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity.

Price Context

Approximately $9.99–$14 USD per 750ml bottle at retail — an exceptional value for an old vine Zinfandel.

Food Pairings

🍖 BBQ ribs🍔 Meaty burger🥩 Prime rib roast🍕 Meaty pizza🌶️ Chilli con carne

Critic Scores

87/100 Wine-Searcher (aggregated critics)