Seghesio Old Vines Sonoma County Zinfandel

- Serve slightly chilled (around 14-16°C/57-61°F) to highlight its vibrant spice and fruit character ideal for warm evenings or outdoor gatherings.

- Pair with smoky grilled pork belly or spiced duck breast served on a wooden board with charred rosemary sprigs for aromatic presentation.

- Create a rustic charcuterie pairing featuring aged Manchego black pepper salami and fig preserves garnished with fresh blackberries to echo the wine’s fruit notes.

- Use as a base for a Red Wine BBQ glaze on slow-cooked ribs or tri-tip reducing the wine with brown sugar chipotle and garlic for a complex sticky finish.

- Present in large wide-bowled glasses to allow the rich aromas to develop; place a cinnamon stick beside the glass for guests to gently inhale the warming spice as an interactive tasting twist.

- Serve alongside a wild mushroom and caramelized onion tart garnished with microgreens and a drizzle of balsamic reduction to complement the wine’s depth.

- Create a red wine sangria variant by mixing the wine with muddled blackberries star anise a splash of brandy and a twist of orange peel served over ice in mason jars for a vibrant casual party drink.

- Ideal for festive occasions with bold flavors such as a winter game meat roast or spiced holiday ham using the wine to deglaze the roasting pan for a rich sauce accompaniment.

For storing red wine such as Zinfandel:

- Optimal Temperature: Store unopened bottles ideally between 55°F and 65°F (13°C to 18°C) with a stable temperature around 55-58°F (13-14°C) preferred to avoid premature aging or spoilage.

- Light Exposure: Keep the wine in a dark environment to prevent degradation caused by UV and fluorescent light exposure. Avoid direct sunlight and use incandescent bulbs if artificial lighting is necessary.

- Sealing: Ensure the cork remains moist to maintain a good seal; this prevents air from entering and oxidizing the wine. Proper humidity levels help preserve this.

- Bottle Position: Store the bottles on their side so the wine remains in contact with the cork preventing it from drying out and shrinking.

- Humidity: Maintain relative humidity levels between 50% and 70%. This range keeps corks from drying and reduces risks of mold or label damage. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to regulate depending on your climate.

- Opened Bottles: Once opened red wine should be re-corked tightly and refrigerated at around 40-45°F (4-7°C) to slow oxidation. Bring it to the ideal serving temperature (about 60-65°F) before drinking by allowing it to warm slightly outside the fridge for about 30 minutes.

- Additional Tips: Avoid temperature fluctuations and vibrations as these can disturb sediment and accelerate aging or spoilage. Store in a location with consistent conditions like a wine cellar or climate-controlled wine fridge.