Decoy California Zinfandel

Decoy California Zinfandel

A Zinfandel that immediately seduces with ripe dark fruit, soft tannins, and a spicy finish. Decoy shows how to bring California sunshine to a glass without losing its freshness, with a style that effortlessly complements weeknight comfort food and a serious steak night.

Vineyards and region

The grapes are sourced from select origins within California. This creates both scale and nuance, with ripe boysenberry and black cherry from the warmer zones and spice, pepper, and tension from cooler sites. The 2022 harvest required precision with an early start, a hot spell in early September, and a cooler finish, allowing each plot to be picked at ideal ripeness for maximum fruit purity.

Vinification and maturation

The wine was aged for 11 months in French oak barrels, 40 percent new and 60 percent neutral, to achieve depth and spice without overpowering the fruit. In the cellar, the focus is on ripe extraction while preserving juiciness, so the tannins remain supple and glossy, and the finish feels broad yet refined.

Grape composition

Zinfandel 86 percent, Petite Sirah 12 percent, Carignane 2 percent. Why do Petite Sirah and Carignane add something to Zinfandel? Petite Sirah brings color, backbone, and dark spices, while Carignane adds freshness and a touch of red fruit, keeping the blend lively and drinkable.

Tasting notes and serving suggestions

The aroma reveals boysenberry, black cherry, mocha, and cinnamon. The palate is full and juicy with plum and berry pie notes, supported by ripe, supple tannins and subtle oak spice throughout. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees Celsius with smash burgers, grilled chicken with a dry rub, spare ribs, or grilled mushrooms. The alcohol content is 14.1 and the acidity is 0.64 grams per 100 milliliters, which explains the combination of ripeness and freshness.