"The End" Dessert Wine

The End is a fortified dessert wine that’s been aging in barrel since 2009. It’s mostly old-vine Zinfandel from Cucamonga, with some Ballard Canyon Syrah and Alvarahao blended in — fermentation arrested with brandy to keep the natural sweetness, then left in wood to develop for over a decade. Deep amber-tawny in color. On the nose: fruitcake, roasted walnuts, dried fig, licorice. On the palate: rich and sweet but with a freshness that contradicts its age. The finish lasts longer than you expect. Pour it after dinner. Small glasses. Pairs with dark chocolate, aged cheese, walnuts, or nothing at all except a quiet room. Open it any time — it’s ready now, and it’ll keep for years after opening if you store it cool.