Just how important is Zinfandel to California’s wine scene? On the next Kushman by the Bottle, our resident wine expert Rick Kushman explains how Zinfandel became a cornerstone of California wine and the role it’s played in building the wine industry in Lodi and Amador counties.

The Winners

Best of Show Red: John Bristow, 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa

Best of Show White, Swanson: & MacWilliams, 2014 Chardonnay

Best of Show all Sweet and Other: Fred Millar, 2011 Port Wine – Portuguese Blend, Amador.