Hook or Crook Cellars 2018 Reserve Field Blend, Lodi

Here's a value find that really delivers. Lodi is a very special growing region located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Here, the exceptionally mild and warm climate is tempered by the vineyards lying at higher altitude but also and most significantly by the breezes that flow in all the way from the Pacific Ocean through the San Joaquin River valley. The result is a microclimate that can grow ripe, expressive red varietals like Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Sirah and Merlot; all of which are in this Reserve red blend.

Lodi is also unique for having an abundance of old vine vineyards with low yields of rich, concentrated grapes and that’s what go into this big, chewy red. Grapes are harvested and fermented together allowing the flavors to meld and mingle. The wine was then aged for 16 months in oak barrels adding another layer of spice and complexity.

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 92 points saying “Excellent depth and concentration give this full-bodied wine a richness that is expressed in beautiful flavors of blackberry, blueberry and chocolate. All that lushness is wrapped in a blanket of fine-grained tannins that creates a velvety texture. Best through 2026.” It’s on sale now so don’t miss it!