Oak Ridge Winery
Estate Grown Ancient Vine Lodi Zinfandel
Lodi, Central Valley, California, USA
Enjoyed this very much on the first couple of sips, but after the second glass it got almost too sweet and fruity.
Enjoyed this very much on the first couple of sips, but after the second glass it got almost too sweet and fruity.
1 person found it helpfulDec 1st, 2021
2022. We loved a Zinfandel blend with our stuffed peppers last night, so we opened up this bottle that we had in the cellar for leftovers tonight. This one is not as big or as smooth on the finish. Maybe a little sweet on its own, but for $8 (with coupon) absolutely no complaints pairing with the sweet pepper and spicy filling.
2022. We loved a Zinfandel blend with our stuffed peppers last night, so we opened up this bottle that we had in the cellar for leftovers tonight. This one is not as big or as smooth on the finish. Maybe a little sweet on its own, but for $8 (with coupon) absolutely no complaints pairing with the sweet pepper and spicy filling.
Jul 30th, 2026
Oak Ridge Winery – Ancient Vine Zinfandel 2022
Lodi, California – USA 🇺🇸
Overview
Sourced from some of Lodi’s most treasured old vines, this estate-grown Zinfandel reflects the depth and concentration that the region is famous for. Oak Ridge, Lodi’s oldest operating winery, has a long legacy of showcasing Zinfandel as the signature grape of California’s Central Valley.
Aromas & Flavors
On the nose, rich waves of red plum and boysenberry mingle with cracked black peppercorn and a touch of toasty oak. The palate follows with flavors of baked raspberry–blueberry pie, layered with star anise, cardamom, and a subtle lift of candied lemon zest on the finish.
Mouthfeel
Lush and concentrated with a medium-plus to full body, ripe tannins, and a smooth texture. The spice notes add complexity, while the fruit-driven core keeps it approachable and vibrant.
Food Pairing
Ideal with BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, or smoky pulled pork. For a vegetarian option, try it with roasted eggplant or spicy black bean chili—this Zin loves bold flavors.
The Verdict
A bold yet balanced Zinfandel that speaks to Lodi’s heritage of ancient vines. Fruit-forward with just the right amount of spice and oak, it’s a crowd-pleasing red that delivers far beyond its approachable style.
✨ Personal Highlight
This bottling reminds me why Lodi’s “Ancient Vine” Zins are so beloved—they capture both power and charm in the glass, making them perfect for hearty meals or a cozy evening sip. Cheers!
Oak Ridge Winery – Ancient Vine Zinfandel 2022
Lodi, California – USA 🇺🇸
Overview
Sourced from some of Lodi’s most treasured old vines, this estate-grown Zinfandel reflects the depth and concentration that the region is famous for. Oak Ridge, Lodi’s oldest operating winery, has a long legacy of showcasing Zinfandel as the signature grape of California’s Central Valley.
Aromas & Flavors
On the nose, rich waves of red plum and boysenberry mingle with cracked black peppercorn and a touch of toasty oak. The palate follows with flavors of baked raspberry–blueberry pie, layered with star anise, cardamom, and a subtle lift of candied lemon zest on the finish.
Mouthfeel
Lush and concentrated with a medium-plus to full body, ripe tannins, and a smooth texture. The spice notes add complexity, while the fruit-driven core keeps it approachable and vibrant.
Food Pairing
Ideal with BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, or smoky pulled pork. For a vegetarian option, try it with roasted eggplant or spicy black bean chili—this Zin loves bold flavors.
The Verdict
A bold yet balanced Zinfandel that speaks to Lodi’s heritage of ancient vines. Fruit-forward with just the right amount of spice and oak, it’s a crowd-pleasing red that delivers far beyond its approachable style.
✨ Personal Highlight
This bottling reminds me why Lodi’s “Ancient Vine” Zins are so beloved—they capture both power and charm in the glass, making them perfect for hearty meals or a cozy evening sip. Cheers!
A decent red Zin. Plum red color, on the nose I had pine, strawberries, cherries. It paired nicely with grilled burgers, a burst of fruit flavor upfront, disappears quickly. Not as bold of a Zin as I’ve had, but not bad for $14 on sale.
A decent red Zin. Plum red color, on the nose I had pine, strawberries, cherries. It paired nicely with grilled burgers, a burst of fruit flavor upfront, disappears quickly. Not as bold of a Zin as I’ve had, but not bad for $14 on sale.
Mar 14th, 2025
Very smooth/ dark fruits not overly sweet but the perfect balance/ medium bodied
Very smooth/ dark fruits not overly sweet but the perfect balance/ medium bodied
Feb 9th, 2025
Little too sweet, but still pretty drinkable. Heavy barrel character on the nose. Dark fruits, huge dark fruit taste. Not what I'd reach for consistently, but not exactly a bad wine. I think I'd drink it again but I'd hope it was a different zin.
Little too sweet, but still pretty drinkable. Heavy barrel character on the nose. Dark fruits, huge dark fruit taste. Not what I'd reach for consistently, but not exactly a bad wine. I think I'd drink it again but I'd hope it was a different zin.
Oct 15th, 2024
Wow, great color and aroma. Very jammy, hits you on the roof of your mouth.
Wow, great color and aroma. Very jammy, hits you on the roof of your mouth.
May 8th, 2023