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Marietta Cellars

Old Vine Red Lot 74

California, United States

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Affectionately known as “OVR,” Marietta’s Old Vine Red is a proprietary red wine made to replicate the field blends of the old vineyards in Sonoma and Mendocino counties. A groundbreaking combination of varietals and multiple vintages first produced in 1982, this wine has blazed the path for red blends for decades. With an historic underground following, it is one of the longest lasting and best known red blends produced today. Predominantly comprised of fresh, young Zinfandel, OVR gets its backbone from Petite Sirah with about three years of age in neutral barrel, and its savory component from Syrah with about two years of age in neutral barrel. Occasionally, other varieties like Merlot, Barbera, Carignan, or Grenache will be blended in to complement the other elements. The goal is always to create an enjoyable table wine made with integrity that combines pure fruit, a supple mouth feel and a rich, solid structure.

WINEMAKING

The goal of winemaking at Marietta is to let the fruit speak for itself. Cool fermentations, neutral oak and stainless steel all work in concert to preserve the purity of fruit in the “OVR” wines. Primarily Zinfandel from 2021, fermented and aged in stainless tank, and benefiting from barrel aged Syrah and Petite Sirah. Small amounts of Merlot, Grenache and Barbera complete the wine. 60% was aged in neutral barrels and 40% was aged in stainless steel.

VINTAGE

A combination of wine from the 2021 and previous vintages, Lot 74 of Old Vine Red melds the freshness of young wines with the savory and silky characters of aged wines to deliver a refreshing, layered, and pleasurable wine. Each “lot” of OVR is blended to produce the best possible wine from separately aged individual varietals.

TASTING NOTE

One swirl of the glass and OVR Lot Number 74 jumps with lovely bright plum fruit. Dark and focused with notes of briar patch and black tea, this wine strikes a perfect balance between fruit forward enjoyment and layered sophistication. Medium bodied, with a mouth of sweet spice, velvety tannins, and electric vibrancy this wine pairs wine almost any meal or occasion.

FOOD PAIRING

Pair the Old Vine Red with a wide range of foods: pizza, pasta, burgers, roasted vegetables, mushrooms, and tacos.

Color

Red

Grape Varieties

Barbera, Grenache, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Zinfandel

Appellation

California, United States

Farming

Organic

Alcohol

13.5%

Suggested Retail Price

$20

Reviews

93

Wine Advocate - October 3, 2023 “The NV Old Vine Red Lot 74 is primarily Zinfandel, with some Syrah, Petite Sirah, Carignan, Grenache and Barbera. Spicy and easy to drink, it has aromas of red and black cherries, mint, bitter chocolate and allspice with earthy undertones. The medium-bodied palate is finely chalky and refreshing, with spicy fruit and an easygoing finish. This will be enjoyable with almost any dish at the table and, as always, overdelivers for the price.”

90

Vinous - July 3, 2024 "The NV OVR Old Vine Red Lot Number 74 is packed with dark-toned fruit, leather, licorice, spice, mocha, chocolate and complicating earthy notes. This bold, flavorful Zinfandel-based blend delivers the goods. Best of all, it is a terrific value."

Trade Materials

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Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red

Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red Lot 74 Label

Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red Bottle Shot

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Marietta's Old Vine Riesling is the most recent and unique extension of the Old Vine series (or "OVR"). Originally intended as a gift for Scot's partner, Lisa, who is German, the bone dry style of Riesling became a fan favorite and permanent addition. While it is the only wine is the lineup that is not estate grown, it comes from some of California's oldest Riesling vines and offers an extraordinary value and delightful drinking experience.

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