Category: INSPIRATION

Discovering Zinfandel: A Journey Through Flavor, Aging, and Perfect Pairings 

Published On - February 19, 2025

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

Ah, Zinfandel. Our crowd-pleasing, happy-sipping, versatile, bold red wine. 

Zin is a beloved wine here at 1000 Stories. Our winery was founded on an idea about zinfandel: that zin can be made in a unique style, aged in used bourbon barrels and released in batches. Each batch has its own mix of grapes from storied vineyards, coupled with a different approach to barrel ageing (we use a mix of bourbon barrels and oak – with the recipe changing for each batch). No two batches are the same, and our zinfandel continues to be one of our most popular wines, receiving high scores and praise from critics and club members. 

Beyond our cellar, zinfandel has a storied history and a unique place in American and world-wide winemaking. 

Zinfandel History in the U.S.

Zinfandel grows very well in Mediterranean climates, making it a perfect grape to thrive in California. Zin is grown all over the state, from Mendocino County, through Napa Valley and Sonoma County and down to Paso Robles and Southern California. Zinfandel is the fourth most planted grape variety in California (after chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon and just after pinot noir). In fact, zinfandel grows so well in California that for years it was thought that the grape was native, with many calling it “America’s grape.” However, in the early 2000’s researchers found that it actually originated from a grape in Croatia called Crljenak Kaštelanskski (pronounced, “Tserl-yee-ehnak Kashh-tell-ann-skee”) or Tribidrag.

The oldest grape vines in California that are still producing wine are generally planted to zinfandel. The oldest documented zinfandel vineyard in California is the Grandpere Vineyard in the Sierra Foothills. It was planted in 1869. Sonoma’s Pagani Ranch Vineyard was planted in the 1880’s and there are vineyards over 100 years old in Lodi, the Russian River region, Contra Costa County and Dry Creek Valley. Wine from these vineyards is generally called “old vine” zinfandel and is as popular for its taste as it is for its place in history.

Zinfandel Tasting Notes

Zinfandel can be made in a variety of styles and has a large range when it comes to flavor. In general, here are some of the descriptors commonly used for Zinfandel:

  • Flavors: Black and red berries, cinnamon, sweet tobacco, peach preserves
  • Body: Medium to full
  • Tannins: Medium to high
  • Acidity: Medium to low
  • Alcohol: Depending on how ripe the fruit gets, Zinfandel can range from 14-16% alcohol
Zinfandel food pairings

Zinfandel Food Pairings

When it comes to food pairings, zinfandel is a perfect choice for a fancy steak dinner and a casual pizza night. It’s also a favorite to be sipped on its own, but here are a few of the best foods with zinfandel:

  • Grilled meats (BBQ ribs, steak, pulled pork or Thanksgiving turkey)
  • Spicy dishes (spicy sausages, chili, curry or Cajun-spiced dishes)
  • Rich pastas (marinara, meatballs, creamy sauces)
  • Cheese pairings (aged cheddar, gouda, rich and bold is best for zin-pull several together for a zin-inspired charcuterie board)

Zinfandel Fun Facts

There is no shortage of interesting details about zinfandel, a wine that has been enjoyed all over the world dating back to the Roman Empire. But here are a few fun facts we should mention – just because they make for great stories:

  • Zinfandel vines can be identified in a vineyard pretty easily. In general, zinfandel is “head trained” meaning it is grown in a single bush as opposed to along a trellis like many modern grape varieties. For much of the year, zinfandel vines look like gnarled, twisty stalks, giving them a unique look in the vineyard.
  • White Zinfandel: This wine is a sweet zinfandel rosé made popular by Napa Valley’s Sutter Home in the 1970’s. The wine skyrocketed in popularity to become one of the most consumed wines by the late 1980’s and was more popular than red zinfandel for many years. While the demand for white zinfandel has died down, the trend did preserve many zinfandel vineyards which may have been removed during those years – giving red zinfandel lovers good reason to embrace this sweet piece of history.
  • Zinfandel has had many names throughout the world and history. It is widely consumed in Italy under the name “Primitivo,” is called Kratošija in Montenegro and Macedonia and, as previously mentioned is often called Crljenak Kaštelanski, Tribidrag or Pribidrag in Croatia, the latter two words meaning “early ripening” in Greek.
  • Zinfandel does not have the same reputation for being a great ageing wine like cabernet sauvignon, but the best zinfandels can be aged for 10-20 years and beyond.
  • Zinfandel grapes often ripen at different times on the vine, challenging winemakers and viticulturists to choose a date to pick the grapes when all will be ripe enough, but not overly-so. 

If you too have been captivated by zinfandel, you are in good company. We expect this grape to continue to delight its fans for the next 2,000 years. We hope you’ll continue to explore different zinfandel wines, grapes and pairings and to share your stories! If you have a great experience with 1000 Stories zinfandel, send it to us, or tag us on Instagram @1000storieswines 

Sources: SevenFiftyDaily, Wine Folly, Delectable

Truffle Hunting

Published On - November 4, 2024

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

Ah, truffles. The little underground ‘shroom that can make even the most discerning foodie swoon. With truffles, a little goes a long way. They are flavorful, decadent, often expensive and have about 1,000,000 culinary uses. 

In the U.S. truffles can be hard to come by in the wild, but there are several regions to focus your search. The forests of the Pacific Northwest are fairly prolific for truffles, from Northern California up to Washington state. In the PNW, you can find truffle hunting events where guides can take you with trained dogs to hunt. However, truffles can also be found in Virginia, North Carolina and Idaho. Generally, the success of the truffle season is dependent on winter rains from the preceding year, as these spores need wet conditions to thrive. 

Of course, there are different types of truffles, and some of the most popular are just popping up in the wild now. White truffles are available from September to December, with peak season in November. Winter black truffles can be found from December to early March, with peak season around New Year. Autumn black truffles are out there from October to December. 

If you find yourself in a region where you may be able to hunt for truffles, here are a few tips:

  • Truffles grow below trees. Look for them below Douglas-firs, oaks, hazelnut, hickory, birch, beech or eucalyptus trees
  • Look for holes and pits dug by squirrels and chipmunks. These animals spread truffle spores, so holes dug by these animals can be clues left behind
  • Bring a dog (preferably one trained in truffle hunting). Dogs can smell truffles and their digging also spreads spores, leading to more truffles!
  • Consider the climate. Truffles grow best in areas with hot summers, warm springs and cold winters

If you are miles away from wild truffles, it’s worth hunting (see what we did there?) for a restaurant that serves them. There is nothing like a truffle pasta paired with a delicious red wine in the cold months. 

Chill Wine Faster Than a ‘Fridge

Published On - August 20, 2024

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

You’ve been there: it’s hot out. Guests are on the way and you suddenly realize you’ve forgotten to chill the white wines. Before you start shoving bottles in the freezer, take a deep breath. You can confidently greet your guests and offer them a drink – we have a simple method to cooling down those summer sippers in less than 15 minutes. 

Step 1: Grab an ice bucket – it should be just large enough to easily fit all bottles standing on the base of the bucket

Step 2: Fill it half-way with ice 

Step 3: Add water – enough that the ice is mostly suspended. Your wines will chill much faster in ice cold water than in the dry refrigerator or resting on solid ice cubes

Step 4: Add Your wine bottle(s) – they will be cold and refreshing in less than 15 minutes

Step 5: Pour a couple glasses and enjoy

We told you it was easy!

Clamming Tips for Summer Seafood Foraging

Published On - June 18, 2024

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

Ah, clams. The versatile little mollusk that makes delicious and “good bottle” worthy meals. Clams are surprisingly abundant in the United States and digging for them is fairly easy, in addition to being a fun summer activity – and a bit of a work out!

Clamming

We are currently in the midst of clamming season and some would say the best part of the season. Clams can be found in bodies of water from the ocean to bays, estuaries and yes, even lakes. Here are a few tips for going clamming for the first time:

  • Decide where to go: Ok, it’s a bit obvious, but depending where you live you likely have clamming options. If you are on the West Coast, Oregon and Washington have an abundance of razor clams and varnish clams (the purple ones) on ocean beaches and bays. On the East Coast, there are 8 common species of clams farmed all over. Some of the best East Coast states for clamming include Massachusetts (think New England clam chowder – yum), Maryland and Maine. 
  • Check area regulations on clamming: Clamming beaches all have different regulations on what seasons are ok for clamming. Make sure you know the rules in your area and whether you need any special licenses. Also, stay aware of any health warnings.
  • Check the tides: Clamming should be done during the lowest tide possible, as clams are generally in the cooler sandy areas under the water as opposed to on the warm beach
  • Bring the right gear: Do a little research on the best tools for clamming. Boots and / or waders are often an important accessory. Also, you’ll need a bucket for keeping the clams and a tool for extracting them. If you are a beginner, we recommend using a clam gun, it’s a tool specifically made for pulling clams out of the sand and it takes much of the guesswork out. Alternately, you could use a clam shovel or fork. 
  • Bring a friend: This is one of those activities that is best shared with company…and maybe with a little friendly competition. 

There are many ways to cook and eat your clams once you’ve dug enough up. Our recommendation? Add to a skillet with some butter, herbs and white wine and sauté over an open fire. Enjoy outside around the fire and serve with plenty of hot, crunchy bread.

Great clam pairings include our Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir.

cooking clams

Spice it up with Mulled Wine

Published On - February 26, 2024

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

March 3rd is National Mulled Wine Day and we are seizing the day to tackle a wine-related challenge. If you’ve ever made mulled wine you probably know it can be tricky to get just right. In our opinion, the best mulled wines still taste like wine – just with warm, wonderful fruit and spice flavors and a smell that will have you wishing for a few more weeks of winter.

Here are our tips for making a mulled wine that won’t make you sorry you used a good bottle of red:

Choose the right wine: Big, bold wines make the best mulled wine. We recommend going with Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon

Less is more when it comes to fruit and spice: Yes, the spices are the point but you would be surprised how quickly “just right” becomes “too much” – add slowly

Take your time and let the wine heat slowly: Steaming is good, boiling is bad. You don’t want it getting syrupy or burning off all the alcohol

Traditional Mulled Wine:

Ingredients:

  • 1 orange
  • 1 bottle of Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon
  • ¼ cup brandy
  • Honey – to your taste – no more than 2 TBL
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • Cranberries (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the orange into rounds and place into the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven. Squeeze the juice from the ends of the orange over the rounds
  2. Pour the wine, brandy and honey into the pot. Add the cloves, star anise and cinnamon sticks
  3. Warm over medium heat until slightly steaming. Reduce heat to low when bubbles form. Keep an eye on it!
  4. Taste carefully and add additional honey if the mixture is not yet sweet enough. The longer you leave the wine on heat, the spicier it will become. If your initial taste needs more spice, leave it on for an additional five minutes and check again.
  5. Add cranberries (optional)
  6. Remove from heat and cover. You can put it back on low heat if it cools while you are serving. Remember, the longer the wine sits on the spices, the spicier it will become. Remove the cloves, anise and cinnamon if you would like to avoid this outcome.

Remember to share!

Forest bathing

Published On - May 2, 2023

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

Forest bathing is becoming a favorite activity this spring, and it is an excellent way to #GetOutside and enjoy your natural surroundings. But what is forest bathing, how is it done and how can you take advantage of its wellness benefits? 

First, forest bathing has nothing to do with water – or with bathing in its traditional sense. It is simply the act of connecting silently with nature and allowing the smells, sounds and feelings of your natural surroundings to “wash” over you. Forest bathing began to be widely-practiced and studied in Japan in the 1980’s, but the concept is not new and has been encouraged and valued by many communities over thousands of years. Similar to yoga and meditation, forest bathing has been shown to lower stress levels and lead to other positive health outcomes.

While there are popular worldwide destinations for forest bathing, it can be done anywhere quiet where the natural world is active. If you live in an urban area, a large park can do the trick – assuming you can avoid distractions. We find that vineyards can be a great place as well. 

 Here are a few tips that can help you get started on a practice of forest bathing:

  1. It is important that you have no distractions. This means leaving your cell phone, your watch and any other electronic devices with alerts at home
  2. Stay as silent as possible and focus only on the sounds, smells and feelings of nature
  3. Find a place that you find to be safe and peaceful, so you are comfortable throughout
  4. Join a guide or a forest bathing tour. A guide will offer prompts to help enhance your experience, much like a yoga instructor
  5. Bring your favorite bottle of wine and enjoy a relaxing, quiet glass in nature; there is no wrong way to enjoy your natural surroundings!

Tradition with a Twist

Published On - November 11, 2022

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

Thanksgiving is arriving soon and we are here for it. As much as we love the food, we are
equally grateful for this season of travel, gathering with friends and creating new memories.
Wherever your plans take you, we have suggestions on the best wine to pair, both with holiday
foods and some favorite holiday activities.

The end of a long travel day: The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel periods of
the year. If you are planning to roam, end the travel day by raising a glass of our Red Blend.
Thanksgiving pairing: Cream or cheese-based side dishes, or butternut squash risotto with crispy
prosciutto.


A Holiday Hike: It’s a good idea to get outside for some exercise and fresh air before the food
starts rolling out. We recommend grabbing your favorite sibling (cousin, friend or parent) and
taking a mid-morning hike. If you plan to find yourself somewhere picturesque and perfect for a
toast, bring a bottle of American Barrel Aged Chardonnay for the occasion. Thanksgiving
pairing: vegetables off the grill, cheeses, deviled eggs, mashed potatoes.


The Game: Football pairs as well with Thanksgiving as turkey does. If you plan to spend a few
hours catching the game, you are going to need a wine as exciting as all the action – enter
Zinfandel Batch 91. The racy flavors and unique bourbon barrel notes will match the energy in
the room. Thanksgiving pairing: turkey, stuffing, just about anything smoked or fried.


Fireside Hang: It’s the end of the night, the dishes are done and it’s finally time to catch up by
the fire. What’s in your glass? We suggest Cabernet Sauvignon. This
bourbon-barrel aged Cab is a great sipper at the end of the day. Or, if you are a cocktail fan, try
The Farmer Mary or even mulled wine. Thanksgiving pairing: bold gravy, beef or
lamb (for those who don’t do turkey), stew.


The Unexpected: Be ready to say yes to a last-minute dinner or party invite, a visit from
someone you can’t wait to catch up with, or a meal that is begging for a great wine. Keep a
bottle of American barrel-aged Pinot Noir handy for these moments – then make them happen!
Thanksgiving pairing: turkey, mushroom casserole, bacon-wrapped asparagus.


May your holidays be bold and bright, and may new traditions be made this year.

Know Your Barrels

Published On - September 20, 2022

By Amy TesconiAmy Tesconi

Each batch of 1000 Stories goes on a journey guided by our winemaker, Sebastian Donoso, to become the bold wine you will eventually enjoy. An important part of that journey, and the winemaking process, is deciding what the barrel ageing process will be for each wine.

Wine barrels are used to impart distinct notes into the wine – some soft, some bold. Different aromas and flavors are added depending on the type of barrel used. Here at 1000 Stories, we use Bourbon barrels, American oak and French oak, depending on the flavors our winemaker wants to add. Use the simple information below to learn more about the different barrels and how they are used to make 1000 Stories wines.

Used Bourbon Barrels:

Barrels: Historically, American oak barrels were always made for Bourbon and Whiskey. The barrels we use are 4-10 years old and have been soaked in Bourbon, with the inside of the barrels blackened or charred to bring out the intensity of the flavors.

Notes: Bourbon barrels impart notes of dried herbs, burnt sugar, caramel, coffee, and vanilla

American Oak:

Barrels: Our American Oak barrels come from Minnesota and have been seasoned outdoors for a minimum of 24 months. Our oak barrels have a medium toast.

Notes: Notes of vanilla, coconut oil, marshmallow and creaminess as well as low levels of tannins, a good match for light-style wines such as our 2020 Pinot Noir.

French Oak:

Barrels: Sourced primarily from France, French oak has a lighter grain and takes longer to impart flavors to the wine. It is widely used in California wines.

Notes: French oak typically imparts darker notes like coffee, mushroom, cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and leather.

Camping Essentials

Published On - June 9, 2022

By Kyra MitchellKyra Mitchell

Whether you’ve planned a camping trip well in advance, or the great outdoors is just calling your name on a fine morning—whenever the opportunity strikes to adventure, be ready to hit the road with the essentials.

For a day trip or an overnight, these are our recommended must-haves when heading out on a hike or camping trip:

  • Food & water: Bring more water than you think you need, and protein rich snacks that have a good shelf life.
  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen are vital.
  • First aid: A good first aid kit that includes foot care and insect repellent.
  • Navigation: A compass or GPS so you can find your way to safety.
  • Light: A good headlamp or lantern with extra batteries. 
  • Fire: Matches, a lighter, and some dry tinder.
  • Hiking Boots: Well-fitting waterproof and breathable footwear is key.
  • Multi-tool: A sturdy multi-tool that includes a corkscrew.

A few bottles of 1000 Stories wines. Nothing compliments a campfire like our bold, delicious wines.

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