By way of background: Lodi, California, is known for some big reds for sure - zinfandel in particular. This ultra-bargain mixture includes estate Lodi wines with additional wines sourced from around Californina.Initial review, May, 2011: This is Farmer's Table Big Red Wine, California, 2007, finished at 13.% alcohol - frankly, not such a big alcohol level for the area. It is a mix of merlot, cabernet sauvignon, alicante and petite sirah. It sells at a "practically free" price.
In the glass: Farmer's Table Big Red is medium deep red.
On the nose: Poured cool with a brief decant and swirled vigorously, shows sweet fruit with some suggestive layers. From the aroma, seems like this will be simple, easy but with hints of intrigue.
On the palate: The primary elements on the palate are in fact a balanced fruit on the mid-palate, light in character. There is some oak in there, some dark cherry, a touch of briar. Finish is simple, fast, but quite clean.
In summary: Overall, a simple but wholly pleasant and balanced experience that rates three stars on the five-star Spirit of Wine scale, making this a best value at its preposterously low price.
Following long decant, one day at room temperature in flat-bottomed decanter: The nose is quite faded. The palate has held together, though, still simple and clean. No noticeable improvement.
And even longer decant, two days kept cool in partially-filled bottle: Deep, subtle yet full nose. Full, lush palate. Almost gets a plus on the three stars for this lushness. I highly suggest the very long decant. Alternatively, leave this even a few more years in bottle.
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Updated review, over a year later, September, 2012: Deep red still in the glass. A little tired and oxidized on the nose. Palate is fruity and tired too. Don't leave to age any longer.
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