Hoffmann Dallwitz Block Zinfandel 2020

This is a single-vineyard in all its glory. It offers a charming and characterful expression of the region. I had the pleasure of comparing them alongside Malaysian cuisine. Aged for three years in new American oak and two years in bottle before release, it reflects a Californian-inspired approach to winemaking. Deep, inky violet-ruby in colour, the wine is dense and expressive. Aromatically, it bursts from the glass with dark cherry, blueberry, and blackberry, layered with smoky, woody undertones. The spicy curry puffs served as a sublime entrée, amplifying the oak character. For the main, roast garlic chicken and fried calamari offered a delicious contrast to the wine’s power. On the palate, this food and wine matching  feels hedonistic—rich, concentrated, and persistent. With glossy texture and firm tannins, this Zinfandel is just beginning to open up and promises a long future ahead. Only 360 bottles produced.