Big Break Vineyard was named after a levee that collapsed over 80 years ago, flooding the local farmland. This area typically produces pervasive and distinctive lots of Zinfandel. Grapes from the Big Break Vineyard are harvested at high natural sugar levels and treated gently in the cellar to emphasize the explosive fruit characteristic of the block. Big Break Zinfandel is minimally handled and aged for 12 months in new, medium-dark toasted French oak before bottling.

Eucalyptus mint, firm structure and exotic spice are key elements in the Big Break Zinfandel. Always a robust wine, the 2019 shows crisp black cherries, exotic spice, as well as a toasted oak characteristic. It holds a distinct dusty berry characteristic (reminiscent of picking wild black berries in the hot summer sun). A nearby eucalyptus grove imparts an intriguing minty flavour.

Enjoy this wine with big, spicy foods with plenty of zip, surf & turf skewers would make an excellent accompaniment.

Cline Cellars is owned by Nancy Cline. Both her grandfathers were from Ireland, Gregory Laughlin in County Cork and Bunting from Lurgan, Co Armagh. Both emigrated around 1878 and settled, respectively in Berkley California and Kansas City. The Cline family have maintained regular contact with remaining family and continue to visit the Laughlin and Bunting families today.