The Mataro grape is thought to have arrived in California in the 1870's and was planted with Zinfandel in field blends in the North Coast and in Contra Costa, Riverside, and San Bernardino County. Much of the original California acreage was lost due to urbanization but a few small ancient plantings such as the Spinelli Vineyard in Oakley remain today. This deep-colored wine has nice flavors of blackberry fruit with hints of Provencal herbs. With such a bold tannin structure this wine will age well for 6 to 10 years. This earthy wine pairs well with rustic fare like stews and roasts.