At a glance

Producer

Klinker Brick Winery

Region

Lodi, California, USA

Grape variety

Zinfandel

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-70 USD (per bottle, retail, as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Ripe blackberry, black cherry, plum, dried fig, baking spice, leather, with subtle toasty oak and evolved earthy undertones. Full-bodied, with supple texture.

Evolution: Primary fruit receding, more dried fruit and leather, silky tannins, integrated oak, slight pepper, warming alcohol.

At peak: Balanced expression; those preferring fresher fruit should drink soon, while those enjoying mature Zinfandel with earthy, spicy complexity can hold through 2026.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate, sufficient to maintain freshness

Tannins

Medium, polished and integrated with age

Alcohol

High (15-15.5% ABV typical for this cuvée)

Aging potential

12-15 years from vintage under optimal storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2018 to 2024

Optimal window

2016 to 2026

Current status

At or near peak

Current condition

Mature, fully developed; drink now or over the next 2-3 years

2013 Klinker Brick Old Ghost’s peak window spans 2018-2024 for optimal fruit structure and complexity. While it remains enjoyable slightly longer, further aging will push wine toward tertiary, less fruit-driven style. Best enjoyed within current decade for maximum balance and depth.

Food pairing

Barbecued ribs, grilled lamb, duck breast, aged cheddar, mole sauce, or wild mushroom risotto.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins and is 12 years old, which suggests it may benefit from aeration to enhance its flavors and aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Sustainable farming practices with adherence to Lodi Rules, focused on integrated pest management, reduced chemical input, cover cropping, habitat preservation, and efficient irrigation. Traditional dry farming on select old vines. Efforts in water and energy management are noted, but no organic or biodynamic certification.

Klinker Brick demonstrates strong regional sustainability through the ‘Lodi Rules’ program—California’s rigorous, third-party-audited system emphasizing environmental stewardship, community, and farmworker protection. Practices focus on habitat, pest management, and resource conservation, but lack of organic/biodynamic status and standard packaging moderate the overall rating. Import/export footprint is typical for premium US wine. Overall, the winery scores above average for sustainability, but not at the leading edge of carbon or regenerative standards.