1000 Stories Wines
Zinfandel Batch 87
Lodi
2021
Vintage
Varietal
Zinfandel
Where it is, October 2026
Mature: past the peak window, but still inside the full drinking arc through 2028.
In 2026, this bottle is beyond its estimated peak but remains inside its modeled drinking horizon through 2028; bottle condition and storage history now matter more than extra cellar time.
The ‘21 Zinfandel Batch 87.
1000 Stories Zinfandel Batch 87 2021 combines Lodi-led old-vine fruit with Mendocino and San Luis Obispo components.
Cellared Ageability Index (CAI) drinking timeline
Storage and bottle condition can shift the experience.
The peak window sits inside the broader full drinking arc.
Tasting note
Red berry flavors span strawberry through raspberry, with dark cherry and violet behind them. Vanilla, coconut, caramel, pepper, and dried herbs reflect the mixed oak and bourbon-barrel finish. Medium body and light tannins lead into a smooth close.
The 2021 vintage
Batch 87 draws its largest share of Zinfandel from historic Lodi vineyards, balanced by fruit from Mendocino County and San Luis Obispo. A small Petite Sirah component adds color, while French and American oak aging is followed by a partial finish in seasoned bourbon barrels.
About 1000 Stories Wines
1000 Stories releases Zinfandel in numbered batches so the vineyard mix and barrels can change with each lot. For Batch 87, the winery centers old-vine Lodi fruit and uses a bourbon-barrel finish as one part of the élevage.
From the cellar: pair with
Bone-in ribeye with rosemary butter
Bone-in ribeye has the protein and richness to balance the Zinfandel’s moderate tannins and full body.
Braised short ribs with truffle polenta
Braised short ribs match the wine’s full body, while truffle polenta complements its earthy spice.
Aged Comté with quince paste
Aged Comté brings salt and fat for the wine’s acidity, while quince paste mirrors its red-fruit character.
Frequently Asked
What is Batch 87?
It is a 2021 Zinfandel led by Lodi old-vine fruit, with Mendocino and San Luis Obispo components.
What does it taste like?
Expect red berries, dark cherry, violet, vanilla, caramel, pepper, and herbs in a medium-bodied frame.
When should it be opened?
The canonical CAI full drinking arc is 2021-2028. Within that arc, the peak window is 2023-2025. The full arc is the broader period the wine may drink well; the peak window is when it is most likely to show its best balance. Storage, fill level, cork condition, and preference can shift the decision. Taste before adding more air or holding the rest.
What pairs with it?
Try bone-in ribeye, braised short ribs with polenta, or aged Comté with quince paste.