2022 McPrice Myers - Zinfandel Paso Robles Pound for Pound

Self-taught winemaker McPrice "Mac" Myers has spent over two decades cementing his status as one of the Central Coast's premier masters of bold, expressive Rhone and heritage varieties. Based in the rolling, sun-drenched hills of Paso Robles, his wines are globally celebrated for capturing the region's signature, larger-than-life opulence without ever sacrificing balance or structural clarity.

True to its evocative name, "Pound for Pound" is stylized as a heavyweight contender that punches far above its weight class, delivering luxury-tier Paso richness at an entry-level price point. Sourced from a selection of elite, sustainably farmed vineyards across the region's diverse microclimates, this 100% Zinfandel release benefits from Paso's intense daytime heat and dramatic, cooling nocturnal breezes.

Aged thoughtfully for 10 months in a combination of French oak barrels and large oak tanks, Mac keeps the percentage of new oak modest to let the historic variety's pure, untamed brambly fruit completely run the show. The 2022 vintage is a knockout, offering a remarkably plush, mouth-filling texture combined with a surprising undercurrent of freshness.

Tasting Profile

• Aroma: Heady, multi-dimensional, and intensely fruit-forward. The wine pours a deep, dark purple-ruby hue. The nose immediately hits with an opulent, fragrant bouquet of dark plum preserves, blackberry compote, and ripe black cherries, quickly followed by complex varietal layers of cracked black pepper, anise, dark cocoa, and a comforting touch of sweet vanilla oak spice.

• Palate: Full-bodied, voluptuous, and incredibly juicy. On the first sip, it wraps around the palate with an expansive, velvety texture loaded with rich flavors of macerated boysenberries, sweet blueberries, and warm fig paste. Despite its high-octane concentration and plushness, a lively line of natural acidity keeps the mid-palate moving, preventing the dense fruit from feeling heavy or cloying.

• Finish: Long, warming, and beautifully rounded. It tapers smoothly into a soft close framed by broad, silky, and fully integrated tannins that leave a gentle, powder-like grip. It leaves behind lingering, complex nuances of exotic baking spices, sweet pipe tobacco, and a final, savory whisper of toasted cedar wood.

Wine Specifications

Serving Tip: This is an immediate, crowd-pleasing red built for pure enjoyment in its youth. While it drinks beautifully straight from the cellar, giving it 15 to 20 minutes of air in a decanter or a wide-bowled glass will allow the sweet, brambly berry fruit and exotic baking spices to fully uncoil. Serve slightly cool at a proper cellar temperature of 60–64°F.

Best Food Pairings

Thanks to its rich, concentrated dark fruit profile, soft tannins, and peppery undertones, this Zinfandel is the ultimate match for smoky, caramelized, and intensely savory dishes:

• The Backyard Grill: Slow-smoked BBQ baby back ribs with a sticky sweet glaze, wood-fired beef brisket, or grilled skirt steaks.

• Gourmet Comforts: Charcoal-grilled burgers topped with sharp white cheddar and bacon, pulled pork sandwiches, or wood-fired meat lovers' pizzas.

• Rich and Savory: Braised wild boar or venison stews, lamb chops with a rosemary crust, or a hearty lasagna loaded with sausage.

• Cheese Course: Sharp, mature cheddars, smoked Gouda, blue cheeses, or dark-chocolate-covered espresso beans.