Mettler Family Vineyards Epicenter Old Vine Zinfandel 2020

Alcohol: 14.5%

Grape(s): 100% Zinfandel

Localization: Lodi, California, USA

Tasting Notes: Mettler "Epicenter" Old Vine Zinfandel tempts with its intense aromas of ripe wild blueberry and a hint of black pepper. The sturdy but softly integrated tannins yield to subtle notes of vanilla and cedar as the wine lingers on your palate. A light touch of acidity creates a balance while retaining the juicy fruit forward personality that is uniquely Zinfandel.

The Domain: The Mettler Family has roots in the wine industry dating back to the 1770s, and they have been growing wine grapes in the Lodi appellation since the late 1800s when their first Lodi vineyards were planted. The family farming tradition continued and in the 1940s, sixth generation grape grower Carl Mettler married Gladys Handel—also from a well-known farming family. This helped to expand the family’s vineyards.

Carl worked closely with nearby Universities to delegate several vineyard sites to experimental varieties. This experimentation helped to establish growing conditions for specific varieties in the Lodi region. Carl's dedication in the vineyard awarded him a spot in the Agricultural Hall of Fame. His integrity and love of the land is still being carried out by one of his three sons, Larry Phillip, who still farms the original Mettler Vineyards.

Today, Larry Mettler—the youngest of Carl’s three sons, and also an Agriculture Hall of Fame recipient—still farms the original Mettler Vineyards. He has continued to keep the family's passion for excellence in the vineyard alive, and he and his wife Charlene have instilled that within their three children, Kimberly, Kelli, and Adam. All family members play an integral role in the family business, as well as Kimberly’s husband and vineyard manager Jason Eells.

Over the years, the Mettler family’s premium vineyards have produced grapes for many well-known wineries. In 2001, they released their inaugural wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, to high acclaim, and have since added Petite Sirah and Zinfandel to the portfolio of estate wines. Family pride and old world values have remained with this family through eight generations of grape growing—including six generations in the Lodi area. The Mettler family works closely together to ensure that every detail reflects their commitment to producing wines of the highest quality.