Introducing the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel:
The dance of dark berries and robust spices comes alive with the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel. A wine that captivates with its bold presence, it effortlessly weaves the story of its Californian origins. Ideal for those seeking depth and character in every sip, this Zinfandel promises an experience worth savoring. From the heart of California’s esteemed vineyards to your glass, it’s a journey of rich flavors and memorable moments. Celebrate the union of heritage and innovation, embodied in this remarkable Zinfandel. Dive in, let the wine speak, and let your senses be your guide.
Behind the Bottle:
Every bottle has a tale, and the story of the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel is one of passion and dedication. Named after vintner Joseph Carr’s father, “Josh,” the brand pays homage to the lessons of hard work, integrity, and family values. This particular Zinfandel iteration, from their Reserve collection, represents the pinnacle of their craft. Harvested from select vineyard sites known for their old-vine Zinfandel grapes, the 2020 vintage showcases the unique terroir of its Californian birthplace. It’s a testament to the legacy of “Josh,” a father’s teachings bottled for posterity. Experience a wine imbued with love, tradition, and the pursuit of excellence.
Core Facts:
2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel
- Winery: Josh Cellars
- Vintage: 2020
- Varietal: Zinfandel
- Region: California
- Alcohol Percentage: 14.5%
- Price: $20 – $25
Bourbon Barrel Aging
The art of barrel aging wines, particularly in barrels that once held spirits, is not just a modern fad but a meticulous craft that intertwines the soul of two distinctly aged liquids. Bourbon barrel aging, in particular, is catching the attention of many winemakers, and the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel is a testament to this craft.
Why Bourbon Barrels?
Bourbon barrels are crafted from American white oak and are charred on the inside before the bourbon is added. This charring caramelizes the sugars in the wood, imparting flavors like vanilla, caramel, and spice to the bourbon. Once the bourbon is removed, these barrels still hold a significant amount of these flavors, ready to be transferred to the next inhabitant: wine.
The Impact on Zinfandel:
Zinfandel, with its bold fruit flavors and spicy undertones, makes for an ideal candidate for bourbon barrel aging. The 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel, when aged in these barrels, gains additional layers of complexity. The dark fruit flavors of blackberries and cherries are accentuated with notes of vanilla and caramel. The inherent spiciness of Zinfandel is further enhanced by the char of the barrel, bringing in a smoky, almost peppery finish.
Texture and Body:
Beyond flavor, the bourbon barrels also influence the texture of the wine. The tannins from the oak, combined with the tannins of the Zinfandel, create a wine that is rich, velvety, and robust. The mouthfeel becomes more rounded, and there’s a noticeable weightiness that wasn’t there before.
The Unique Experience:
Bourbon barrel aging isn’t just about adding flavors; it’s about creating a unique tasting experience. With the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel, there’s a harmonious dance between the boldness of Zinfandel and the soul of bourbon. Each sip is a journey that starts in the vineyard and takes a detour through a bourbon distillery before reaching the glass.
Are the Results Worth It?:
The bourbon barrel aging of the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel is not just a gimmick but a genuine ode to the spirit of experimentation and the quest for deeper flavors in winemaking. It’s a bold move, and in this case, it pays off beautifully, resulting in a wine that’s as memorable as it is enjoyable.
Winemaker’s Legacy:
Josh Cellars was born from a tribute. Joseph Carr, a prominent wine industry veteran, founded the brand in honor of his father, Josh. Reminiscing about his father’s unyielding spirit and passion for high-quality wines, Joseph aimed to create wines that encapsulate these same virtues. The 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel stands as a testament to this legacy. Each bottle is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. By respecting time-honored winemaking techniques while embracing modernity, this Zinfandel is a nod to past, present, and future. Like a heartfelt story passed down through generations, it captures the essence of dedication and the love of the craft.
Vineyard Insights:
Josh Cellars’ vineyards are a mosaic of diverse terrains, each contributing a unique flavor profile to the wines. Nestled in California’s renowned wine regions, these vineyards experience a delicate dance of sun, soil, and sea, bestowing the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel with its distinct characteristics. The vineyard’s terroir is rich in alluvial soil, ensuring the vines receive optimal nutrients. Cool Pacific breezes moderate temperatures, slowing grape maturation and allowing flavors to develop depth and complexity. The meticulous attention to canopy management and sustainable farming practices further elevates the wine’s quality. This Zinfandel, with its deep roots in such fertile ground, emerges as a true reflection of its environment, embodying the very soul of its terroir.
Historical Tidbits & Anecdotes:
Josh Cellars has a touching origin story, interwoven with family ties and dreams realized. The winery was founded by Joseph Carr in homage to his father, a hardworking man named Josh. Having served as a soldier and later as a skilled craftsman, Josh instilled in Joseph a sense of dedication, passion, and the will to always strive for greatness.
The Zinfandel grape itself holds an intriguing history, often touted as the “American grape” due to its significant presence in the US, even though its origins trace back to Croatia. In the late 1800s, Zinfandel found its way to California during the Gold Rush, and it’s been flourishing there ever since, especially in regions like Lodi and Paso Robles.
The 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel is a culmination of these historical threads – a tribute to a dedicated father, crafted from a grape that has journeyed through time and space. As you sip, perhaps you’ll taste not just the rich flavors of the wine, but also a hint of the legacy and tales that have shaped it.
Tasting Notes:
Appearance: A deep ruby hue, with glints of purple, elegantly adorns the glass.
Nose: Enticing aromas of ripe blackberries, cloves, and vanilla waft up, mingled with a hint of tobacco and cedar.
Palate: On the palate, this Zinfandel expresses a medley of dark fruits – think black cherries and plums. Spicy notes of black pepper and star anise give it a spirited kick. A subtle touch of oak adds depth and complexity.
Finish: The wine concludes with a long, velvety finish, leaving a lingering impression of warm spices and ripe fruit.
A true testament to the richness of Californian terroir, the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel is both robust and refined. A wine to savor and muse over.
Food Pairings:
Grilled Meats: The wine’s robust character flawlessly complements the smokiness of barbecued pork ribs or a well-seared steak.
Italian Classics: Think lasagna, spaghetti Bolognese, or eggplant Parmesan. The wine’s bold flavors match beautifully with rich tomato-based dishes.
Spicy Dishes: The peppery undertones of the Zinfandel can hold up to spicy Mexican dishes like chiles rellenos or tandoori chicken from Indian cuisine.
Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar, Gouda, or Parmigiano-Reggiano will balance the wine’s fruit-forward nature.
Wild Game: If you’re feeling adventurous, dishes like venison or wild boar stew can bring out the wine’s inherent earthiness.
Chocolate Desserts: Dark chocolate truffles or a rich chocolate mousse can complement the deep berry flavors of this Zinfandel.
For those with a taste for adventure and a passion for flavors, the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel provides the perfect canvas to paint your culinary masterpiece. Whether it’s a classic dish or something a bit more daring, this wine stands up to the challenge.
Seal & Sentiment:
Label: A regal and timeless design, the label on the Josh Reserve bottle exudes elegance. It hints at the legacy and passion that goes into every bottle, symbolizing the commitment of the brand to its craft.
Bottle Shape & Color: The bottle boasts a dark and tall stature, synonymous with strength and quality. It’s sturdy in hand, a tactile assurance of the wine’s premium character.
Cork Quality: The cork, pulled smoothly from the bottle, reveals its prime quality, adding another layer of sophistication to the wine-drinking experience.
Overall Presentation: The 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel offers a sensory journey even before the wine touches your lips. Its packaging reflects the winery’s promise of a rich, full-bodied wine experience. The sheer aesthetics of the bottle, from the label to the cork, speak of its premium status, ensuring you know you’re about to partake in something truly special.
Serving Tips:
Glassware: For a Zinfandel of this caliber, opt for a large red wine glass with a bowl that tapers slightly at the top. This design will trap the wine’s powerful aromas and deliver them straight to your senses.
Decanting: This robust wine benefits from a little breathing space. Decant for about 30 minutes to an hour before serving, allowing the wine to open up and release its full range of flavors and aromas.
Temperature: Zinfandels, especially one as rich as the Josh Reserve, shine best when served between 60-65°F (15-18°C). Too cold, and you risk muting its many flavors. Too warm, and the alcohol might overpower its subtleties.
Pairing Utensils: If you’re enjoying this with a meal, make sure to have a wine-friendly fork and knife set. The smoother glide of such utensils ensures that no flavors from the metal interfere with the wine’s profile.
Pouring Technique: Pour slowly to avoid unsettling any sediment, and aim to fill the glass only about one-third of the way to allow plenty of room to swirl without spilling.
Re-corking: If you don’t finish the bottle in one sitting (though it’s tempting!), use a wine pump to remove air before sealing it with a rubber stopper. This will help preserve the wine’s characteristics for another day.
Note: Due to its richness and full-bodied nature, the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel is a wine that commands respect. Paying attention to these serving nuances will elevate your wine-drinking experience and truly honor the craftsmanship behind the bottle.
Legacy and Future:
Past Legacy: The story of Josh Reserve wines is a testament to the power of passion and family values. The brand, named in honor of the founder’s father, has consistently produced wines that capture the essence of their origins. Their Zinfandel offerings have always been a tribute to the grape’s storied history in America, particularly in California. The 2020 Reserve showcases a culmination of years of viticulture knowledge and winemaking expertise.
Current Stance: The 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel, with its deep flavors and robust character, stands as a beacon of the brand’s commitment to quality. It has already gained recognition in wine circles for its boldness and complexity, embodying the characteristics that Zinfandel lovers cherish.
Looking Forward: The future for the Josh Reserve Zinfandel is incredibly promising. With the growing global appreciation for Zinfandels that possess both power and elegance, the demand is projected to rise. The winery’s dedication to sustainable practices and innovative techniques ensures that future vintages will not only meet but likely exceed, the high standards set by the 2020 Reserve.
Final Thoughts: As the wine world evolves, so does the legacy of the Josh Reserve Zinfandel. Rooted in respect for the past and a vision for the future, this wine is set to remain a beloved choice for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Here’s to the chapters yet to be written in its captivating story!
Procure Your Pour:
Why You’d Want to Buy This: Josh Reserve Zinfandel is a sumptuous delight for those who crave wines with character and history. This Zinfandel, given its depth and captivating flavors, makes an excellent companion for a cozy dinner or a gift for a discerning wine lover.
Local Wine Retailers: The first port of call should be your neighborhood wine shops or liquor stores. Many of them carry the Josh Cellars range due to its rising popularity.
Major Retail Chains: Many of these chains have a varied wine selection, and there’s a good chance you’ll find the Josh Reserve Zinfandel on their shelves.
Online Wine Retailers: Websites like Wine.com, Drizly, and Vivino might have the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel available, depending on your location and the local alcohol shipping laws.
Directly from the Winery: The Josh Cellars official website is also a great place to look. Some wineries, including Josh Cellars, might offer direct sales and shipping, especially if they have a wine club.
Wine Apps: Applications like Vivino or Wine-Searcher can provide insights on local and online availability, as well as price comparisons.
Local Restaurants: If you’re thinking of enjoying a bottle out, upscale restaurants and those with a focus on wine may have the 2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel on their list. Always a good choice for a memorable dining experience.
The Critic’s Verdict:
2020 Josh Reserve Zinfandel
This wine commands attention with its audacious flavors and robust character. It sings a harmonious symphony of ripe dark fruits, old-world charm, and nuanced spices. Critics and connoisseurs alike have praised its perfect equilibrium of power and elegance. There’s an undeniable allure to this wine; it captivates the palate and charms the senses, making it an essential addition to any serious wine enthusiast’s collection. A wine that wears its pedigree with pride, the 2020 vintage from Josh Cellars is not just a drink but a statement. Whether shared among friends or savored alone, this Zinfandel stands tall, embodying the best of what the varietal can offer.
