Though we haven't yet talked much about Old Vine Zin, what Lodi is most famous for, we will. But before we do, the region is home to a veritable smorgasbord of grapes more typically associated with Spain and Italy, and France. Today's wine is a perfect example: Tempranillo. Word is that the Mediterranean climate is perfect for these less prevalent (in the US) varieties - and this is proof:
2010 M2 Tempranillo Lodi Kirschenman Vinyard "Tormenta" $24
There is nothing shy about this proud, enjoyable juggernaut of a wine. Dense, gritty, and structured enough to lend polish, this gulpable domestic Rioja is as much Red Hills Cabernet as it is Tempranillo. With all the extraction of a warm climate Tempranillo and more dusty texture than a Rutherford red, there is a lot to like in this slightly more complex and profound cousin of Senda 66.