Viniou Reviews
1000 Stories 2021 is a bold Californian red, which is particularly characteristic of the new wave of American winemaking. Crafted mainly from Zinfandel, a grape that thrives in California’s diverse terroirs, this wine is known for its full body, ripe fruit expression and rich, smoky complexity. The 2021 vintage benefited from a temperate growing season, allowing for a harmonious balance between ripe tannins and bright acidity. 1000 Stories is renowned for its innovative maturation process using bourbon barrels, imparting deep notes of vanilla, sweet spice and a subtle toasted character to the dark cherry and blackberry fruit profile typical of quality Zinfandel.
California’s AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) offer an ideal environment for this style, with warm days, cool nights and varied soils—from gravelly loams to sandy clay. These conditions help produce concentration in the grapes while preserving freshness. California has a rich wine history, dating back to the 18th century, but Zinfandel truly became a signature grape of the state from the mid-20th century onward. The tradition of maturing wine in bourbon barrels is a distinctively American innovation, reinforcing California’s reputation for creativity and adaptation in winemaking.
This wine’s generous structure and spicy-sweet notes make it a versatile partner at the table. It pairs beautifully with grilled or smoked meats, such as Texas-style barbecued brisket, slow-cooked ribs, or a classic American cheeseburger. For a regional twist, serve alongside Napa Valley tri-tip or a hearty chili. It can also complement mature cheddar or blue cheeses, and stands up well to dishes featuring roasted root vegetables or rich, tomato-based sauces.
For optimal enjoyment, serve 1000 Stories 2021 slightly cooler than room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for around 30 minutes before serving will help the bouquet open up, highlighting both the vibrant fruit and the subtle bourbon barrel nuances.
