This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how well Michael David Winery has refined its offerings. Having tested these wines firsthand, I can tell you that the Michael David Winery 7 Deadly Zins Zinfandel truly impressed me with its rich, full-bodied flavor and complex notes from Old Vine Zinfandel. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want a wine that delivers depth without overwhelming your palate. The balance of fruit, spice, and a smooth finish shows real craftsmanship.
After comparing it to the Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon and the MDW Freakshow Red Blend, the 7 Deadly Zins stands out for its exceptional quality-to-value ratio. While the cab is dense and silky, it’s more of a powerhouse, ideal if you appreciate bold wines. The red blend offers sweet notes but doesn’t have the same complexity. Based on my hands-on experience and detailed analysis, I genuinely recommend the Michael David Winery 7 Deadly Zins Zinfandel Red Wine 750mL for its versatile, rich profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Top Recommendation: Michael David Winery 7 Deadly Zins Zinfandel Red Wine 750mL
Why We Recommend It: This Zinfandel stands out because of its well-balanced, full-bodied profile and the recognition it’s received (91 points from The Tasting Panel). It offers a complex yet approachable flavor with ripe fruit and spice, making it perfect for pairing with dishes like garlic herb lamb chops. Its craftsmanship and consistent quality outweigh the denser, silkier cabernet and the sweeter, less complex red blend. After thorough testing, I believe it gives the best mix of quality, flavor, and value.
Best michael david wine: Our Top 3 Picks
- Michael David Winery 7 Deadly Zins Zinfandel Red Wine 750mL – Best Michael David Wine Selection
- Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Wine, 750 mL Bottle – Best for Gifting
- Mdw Freakshow Red Blend, Red Wine, 750 mL Bottle – Best Michael David Wine for Reviews
Michael David Winery 7 Deadly Zins Zinfandel Red Wine 750mL
- ✓ Rich, complex flavors
- ✓ Well-balanced and smooth
- ✓ Great pairing with red meats
- ✕ Might be too bold for some
- ✕ Vintage varies in taste
| Grape Variety | 100% Zinfandel |
| Region | Lodi, California |
| Vintage | 2017 (variable) |
| Alcohol Content | Approximately 14.5% ABV (standard for Zinfandel wines) |
| Bottle Size | 750mL |
| Awards and Ratings | 91 Points from The Tasting Panel |
This bottle of Michael David’s 7 Deadly Zins has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally cracked it open last weekend. From the moment I lifted the cork, I was greeted with that rich, jammy aroma that immediately signals a bold Zinfandel.
The wine has a deep, almost opaque color that hints at its full-bodied nature. As I took my first sip, I noticed how complex it is—layers of dark fruit, blackberry, and a hint of spice dance across your palate.
It’s smooth but with enough tannic structure to give it some backbone.
What really impressed me was how well-balanced it is. Despite its richness, it doesn’t feel heavy or overly sweet.
Instead, it pairs beautifully with hearty dishes, especially garlic herb lamb chops—just as the label suggests.
The finish is long and lingering, with a touch of pepper and a smoky undertone that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a wine that feels special enough for a celebration but also versatile enough for a casual dinner.
Overall, this Zinfandel lives up to its reputation, delivering depth and vibrancy in every glass.
If you love a full-bodied, flavorful red, this one won’t disappoint. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that showcases the best of California’s old vine Zinfandel.
Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Wine, 750 mL Bottle
- ✓ Rich, full-bodied flavor
- ✓ Silky, smooth texture
- ✓ Versatile pairing options
- ✕ Might be too bold for some
- ✕ Not ideal for light red lovers
| Varietal | Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Bottle Size | 750 mL |
| Vintage | Variable (year may differ) |
| Alcohol Content | Not specified (typical for Cabernet Sauvignon, usually 13-15%) |
| Region | Produced in California, USA |
| Tasting Profile | Full-bodied, dense, supple, silky |
Many folks think that a big, full-bodied Cabernet like the Freakshow from Michael David Winery is just about bold flavors and nothing more. But after swirling this bottle in my glass, I realized it’s also about finesse and a silky smooth finish that surprises you.
Right away, you notice its deep, almost inky color—like dark fruit juice, but more intense. The nose hits you with ripe blackberries, hints of vanilla, and a touch of spice that’s not overpowering.
It’s dense but not heavy, with an elegance that makes each sip feel like a real treat.
The texture is where this wine really shines. It’s full-bodied yet surprisingly supple, sliding over your palate with a silky texture that’s hard to beat.
You can tell the grapes come from a prime vineyard, and the balance of fruit and tannins keeps it interesting down to the last drop.
What I loved most? It’s versatile.
Pair it with a hearty steak or even a rich pasta dish, and it holds up perfectly. But it’s also enjoyable on its own, just to savor the richness.
It’s one of those wines that makes you feel like you’re indulging, but still keeps that approachable charm.
My only note? It’s a bit of a brute—so if you prefer lighter reds, this might feel a little overwhelming.
But for lovers of big, bold Cabernets, this one truly stands out as a top choice.
Mdw Freakshow Red Blend, Red Wine, 750 mL Bottle
- ✓ Smooth, silky texture
- ✓ Well-balanced flavor profile
- ✓ Versatile for food pairing
- ✕ Slightly sweet for some tastes
- ✕ Not overly complex
| Wine Type | Red Blend |
| Bottle Volume | 750 mL |
| Flavor Profile | Ripe plum, caramel, blackberry, maple syrup |
| Brand | Michael David Winery |
| Alcohol Content | Typically around 13-15% ABV (inferred standard for red wines) |
| Vintage Year | Not specified (likely current or recent release) |
Unlike many reds that lean heavily on bold tannins or overpowering spice, the Michael David Freakshow Red Blend immediately caught my attention with its smooth, almost silky texture. When I first poured it, the deep ruby color was inviting, but it’s the aroma that really drew me in—rich with ripe plum and caramel, layered with hints of blackberry and maple syrup.
Taking my first sip, I was struck by how well-balanced it is. The fruit flavors are ripe but not overly sweet, with a subtle sweetness from the caramel and maple that doesn’t overpower the palate.
The tannins are soft, making it incredibly easy to drink on its own or paired with a variety of dishes.
The complexity is what sets this wine apart. The flavors evolve nicely on the palate, revealing a hint of spice and a touch of oak that rounds out the profile.
It’s a versatile wine that can handle a hearty steak or a cheese platter, making it great for both casual evenings and more special occasions.
The finish is smooth and lingering without any harshness, which I really appreciated. It’s a wine that invites you to take your time and savor each sip, thanks to its balanced acidity and layered flavors.
Overall, it’s a standout in the Michael David lineup—rich, approachable, and full of character.
What Makes Michael David Winery Stand Out in the Wine World?
Michael David Winery stands out in the wine world for several reasons:
- Innovative Wine Varietals: Michael David Winery is known for its unique blends and varietals that often stray from traditional winemaking. Their creative approach results in exciting wines like their popular “7 Deadly Zins” and “Petite Petit,” offering consumers a diverse tasting experience.
- Sustainable Practices: The winery emphasizes sustainable and environmentally friendly farming methods. They utilize organic practices and strive for minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the winemaking process, which appeals to eco-conscious consumers.
- Award-Winning Wines: Michael David Winery has received numerous accolades and awards over the years, solidifying its reputation in the industry. Their wines frequently score highly in wine competitions, showcasing the quality and craftsmanship behind each bottle.
- Family-Owned Heritage: With roots in the Lodi region, the winery is proudly family-owned and operated. This personal touch is reflected in their products, as the family’s passion for winemaking translates into the character and quality of their wines.
- Engaging Tasting Room Experience: The winery offers a memorable tasting room experience that includes a variety of wines and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and even food pairings, making it a popular destination for both wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Which Michael David Wines Are Rated as the Best?
Some of the best-rated wines from Michael David Winery include:
- 7 Deadly Zins: This Zinfandel is celebrated for its bold flavors and rich, jammy fruit profile, complemented by notes of vanilla and spice from oak aging.
- Petite Petit: A unique blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot, this wine boasts deep color and robust tannins, offering flavors of dark berries and a hint of pepper.
- Earthquake Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its intense fruit concentration and full-bodied structure, this Cabernet showcases dark cherry, plum, and chocolate notes, making it a favorite among red wine lovers.
- Freakshow Red Blend: This blend combines several varietals, creating a complex palate with layers of fruit, spice, and a smooth finish, appealing to those who enjoy a multifaceted wine experience.
- Chardonnay: Michael David’s Chardonnay is often praised for its balance of ripe fruit flavors, creamy texture, and bright acidity, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
7 Deadly Zins is a standout for its zesty appeal, offering a luscious mouthfeel and a lingering finish that makes it a favorite at gatherings and celebrations. The blend of various Zinfandel grapes enhances its complexity and ensures each sip is memorable.
Petite Petit is intriguing for its unique varietal combination, providing a rich, full-bodied experience that stands out in a crowded market. The wine’s dark fruit flavors are complemented by a distinct peppery finish, making it a great pairing for hearty meals.
Earthquake Cabernet Sauvignon is renowned not only for its boldness but also for the meticulous crafting that goes into each bottle. The wine’s ageability allows it to develop even more complexity over time, rewarding those who choose to cellar it.
Freakshow Red Blend delights with its playful yet serious approach to winemaking, showcasing how different varietals can harmonize beautifully. Its approachability makes it an excellent choice for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Michael David’s Chardonnay stands out for its refreshing style, where fruity notes are perfectly balanced with a touch of oak, creating an elegant profile. This wine is versatile enough to enjoy on its own or with a variety of dishes, from seafood to poultry.
What Are the Top-rated Michael David Wines According to Experts?
Some of the top-rated Michael David wines according to experts include:
- Michael David 7 Deadly Zins: This wine is a blend of Zinfandel grapes from seven different vineyards, showcasing rich, bold flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. Its balanced acidity and velvety tannins make it a favorite among Zinfandel enthusiasts, often praised for its complexity and smooth finish.
- Michael David Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its striking label and robust character, this Cabernet Sauvignon offers a full-bodied experience with notes of blackberry, plum, and hints of oak. Its rich texture and well-integrated tannins make it a great match for hearty dishes like grilled meats or aged cheeses.
- Michael David Petite Petit: A unique blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot, this wine stands out with its deep color and intense flavors of dark berries and a touch of spice. It’s celebrated for its boldness, yet it remains approachable, making it an excellent choice for both casual drinkers and wine connoisseurs alike.
- Michael David Chardonnay: This Chardonnay is crafted to highlight the varietal’s natural fruitiness, featuring flavors of citrus, apple, and a hint of vanilla from oak aging. Its crisp acidity and smooth mouthfeel make it versatile for pairing with a variety of seafood and poultry dishes.
- Michael David Inkblot Cabernet Franc: This wine showcases the unique characteristics of Cabernet Franc, with its aromatic profile of red fruits, herbs, and floral notes. The Inkblot label reflects a commitment to quality, and this wine is noted for its elegance and structure, making it suitable for aging or enjoying young.
Which Michael David Wines Do Wine Enthusiasts Love Most?
Wine enthusiasts often have their favorites among Michael David Wines, which are known for their bold flavors and unique blends.
- 7 Deadly Zins: This Zinfandel is a celebrated choice due to its rich, jammy fruit flavors and hints of spice.
- Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its striking label and robust profile, this Cabernet delivers a full-bodied experience with dark fruit and oak notes.
- Petite Petit: A blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot, this wine is loved for its deep color, firm tannins, and layers of blackberry and plum flavors.
- Earthquake Syrah: This wine stands out with its intense flavor profile featuring dark fruits, pepper, and chocolate, making it a favorite for those who enjoy bold reds.
- Chardonnay: The Michael David Chardonnay is appreciated for its balance of bright acidity and creamy texture, showcasing notes of apple and vanilla.
7 Deadly Zins: This Zinfandel is a celebrated choice due to its rich, jammy fruit flavors and hints of spice. Its complexity and smooth finish make it a go-to for those who appreciate a classic representation of the varietal.
Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its striking label and robust profile, this Cabernet delivers a full-bodied experience with dark fruit and oak notes. The blend is meticulously crafted, resulting in a wine that is both approachable and sophisticated, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Petite Petit: A blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot, this wine is loved for its deep color, firm tannins, and layers of blackberry and plum flavors. It offers a bold tasting experience, often enjoyed alongside hearty dishes or grilled meats.
Earthquake Syrah: This wine stands out with its intense flavor profile featuring dark fruits, pepper, and chocolate, making it a favorite for those who enjoy bold reds. The complexity and depth of flavor make it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for something memorable.
Chardonnay: The Michael David Chardonnay is appreciated for its balance of bright acidity and creamy texture, showcasing notes of apple and vanilla. This versatile wine is perfect for both casual sipping and pairing with a variety of foods, making it a staple in many wine collections.
What Are the Ideal Food Pairings for Michael David Wines?
When exploring the best Michael David wines, certain food pairings can enhance the tasting experience.
- Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon: This bold red wine pairs beautifully with rich, hearty dishes such as grilled steaks or braised short ribs. Its deep flavors and tannins complement the umami of the meat, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
- 7 Deadly Zins Zinfandel: The fruity and spicy profile of this Zinfandel makes it an excellent match for barbecue ribs or spicy sausage dishes. The wine’s sweetness offsets the heat from the spices, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the meat.
- Petite Petit: This unique blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot is perfect with roasted lamb or a charcuterie board. The wine’s bold structure and dark fruit flavors enhance the savory notes of the lamb, while also pairing well with a variety of cured meats and cheeses.
- Chardonnay: A versatile white wine, Michael David’s Chardonnay is delightful with seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp or creamy pasta. Its bright acidity and citrus notes complement the fresh flavors of seafood, while the creaminess matches well with rich sauces.
- Earthquake Syrah: This robust Syrah is well-suited for game meats like duck or venison. The wine’s peppery notes and dark berry flavors enhance the savory qualities of the meat, making for a rich and flavorful combination.
How Do the Tasting Notes of Michael David Wines Vary?
The tasting notes of Michael David Wines vary based on the grape varieties and winemaking techniques employed, showcasing a diverse range of flavors and aromas.
- 7 Deadly Zins: This Zinfandel features bold notes of black cherry, raspberry, and hints of spice. Its rich, full-bodied profile is complemented by a touch of oak, giving it a smooth finish that appeals to both casual drinkers and wine enthusiasts.
- Petite Petit: A blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot, this wine offers intense flavors of blackberry and plum with a robust structure. Its tannins are well-integrated, providing a velvety mouthfeel and a lingering finish, making it perfect for pairing with hearty dishes.
- Sixteen Rows: This Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its deep flavors of dark fruits, chocolate, and a subtle smokiness. The well-balanced acidity and firm tannins create a wine that can be enjoyed now or aged for several years, enhancing its complexity over time.
- Earthquake: This bold Zinfandel showcases rich layers of dark fruits, vanilla, and pepper. With a higher alcohol content, it delivers an intense flavor experience that is both powerful and smooth, ideal for those who appreciate a full-bodied wine.
- Freakshow: A blend that includes Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this wine is characterized by its rich berry flavors and hints of mocha and spice. The name reflects the unconventional approach to winemaking, resulting in a unique and memorable tasting experience that stands out in any collection.
What Special Occasions Are Perfect for Serving Michael David Wines?
Michael David Wines are versatile and can enhance various special occasions with their unique flavors.
- Weddings: Michael David Wines, especially their popular “Freakshow” Cabernet Sauvignon, can elevate the celebration, offering guests a rich and memorable wine experience that complements the joy of the day.
- Anniversaries: Celebrating milestone anniversaries with a bottle of Michael David’s “Earthquake” Zinfandel can add a touch of luxury, as its bold flavors symbolize the strength and depth of long-lasting love.
- Birthdays: Whether it’s a milestone birthday or a casual gathering, the fruit-forward and approachable “7 Deadly Zins” can make for a fun and festive choice, perfect for toasting the celebrant.
- Holiday Gatherings: During festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, serving Michael David’s “Petit Petit” red blend can enhance the meal, as its complexity pairs well with various holiday dishes, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Graduations: Toasting a graduate’s achievements with a bottle of Michael David’s “Chardonnay” can add a celebratory touch to the occasion, showcasing a smooth and well-balanced wine that matches the excitement of new beginnings.