Wines Lodi Michael David Winery - Sixth Sense - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The Six Sense Red Blend 2021 from Michael David Winery in Lodi, California, is an expressive red wine made from a blend of grape varieties, with Zinfandel often playing a starring role, complemented by Syrah, Petite Sirah, and other classic red varietals. The wine is noted for its deep garnet colour and a complex bouquet of dark berries, plum, sweet spices, and hints of mocha and vanilla, reflective of thoughtful oak aging and careful grape selection. The 2021 vintage benefited from a temperate growing season, allowing grapes to ripen leisurely and develop concentrated flavours while retaining vibrant acidity.

Lodi, situated in the Central Valley of California, is renowned for its warm, Mediterranean climate and sandy, well-drained soils. This terroir is particularly favourable for robust red grape varieties, most famously Zinfandel, granting the wines opulence and ripe fruit character. Lodi's wine-growing tradition dates back to the 19th century, and today it stands as one of America's most important AVAs for approachable, fruit-forward reds that marry power with balance. The cool evening breezes from the nearby Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta help maintain freshness and structure in the grapes, underpinning wines like Michael David’s cuvées with both juiciness and elegance.

In terms of food pairings, this bold yet balanced red blend complements hearty dishes with rich flavours. Classic pairings include braised short ribs, grilled lamb chops, or a rustic American beef chilli. For a flavourful regional match, try smoked BBQ brisket, chargrilled tri-tip, or even a pulled pork sandwich. The wine also adapts well to Mediterranean cuisine such as lamb tagine or aubergine moussaka thanks to its spice and depth. For cheese lovers, an aged cheddar or a lightly spiced blue cheese will echo the wine’s fullness.

This red is best served at 16-18°C, allowing its fruit-driven aromas and subtle spice to unfold. Decanting for 30 minutes before tasting will soften the tannins and enhance the overall aromatic complexity, making your experience even more enjoyable.