Celebrating Five Years of Collaboration: Gnarly Head and Grateful Dead Launch New Zinfandel

Five Years of Flavor: Gnarly Head & Grateful Dead Celebrate with a New Vintage

In a remarkable fusion of music and viticulture, Gnarly Head Wines has teamed up with the legendary Grateful Dead to commemorate their five-year partnership with the launch of an exclusive collectible Old Vine Zinfandel. This vintage represents not just a celebration of fine wine but also a tribute to the iconic American band that has left a lasting legacy in the music world.

A Toast to Partnership

Launched in September 2026, the 2024 Gnarly Head x Grateful Dead Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel offers a bold statement in its flavor profile and presentation. This new release is adorned with a special limited-edition bottle that features a peel-off sticker label designed with the Grateful Dead's signature "Steal Your Face" graphic, reinterpreted through Gnarly Head’s distinct vine imagery. As a fun twist, the underside of this label reveals hidden artwork inspired by the band’s beloved “Space Your Face” motif—a cosmic nod to their classic skull imagery embraced by fans for generations.

Fans of the Grateful Dead can now enjoy a uniquely crafted piece of memorabilia, which not only holds the promise of exceptional quality but also catches the eye with artistic detail. The Zinfandel encapsulates flavors of succulent dark fruits, rich plum essence, and a teasing hint of peppery spice, making it a delightful experience for palates both familiar and new to the world of wine.

Awards and Recognition

The accolades for Gnarly Head’s Old Vine Zinfandel are commendable, with the 2024 vintage recently achieving a remarkable rating of 94 points and receiving a Double Gold medal at the 2026 California State Fair. Additionally, it earned a 91-point rating from Wine Enthusiast, alongside the coveted “Best Buy” designation, showcasing a product that delivers quality, artistry, and value all in one bottle.

Brett Johnson, the Portfolio Director at Delicato Family Wines, the producer behind Gnarly Head, expressed enthusiasm about the relationship with the Grateful Dead, stating, “The excitement around our Grateful Dead releases over the past five years has shown just how much fans enjoy sharing great wine and iconic music.”

Connecting Through Culture

David Lemieux, the Grateful Dead's archivist and legacy manager, emphasized that this release captures the essence of the Grateful Dead community, which cherishes collectibles and creative expressions tied to the band’s music and culture. This latest vintage not only serves as a connector for fans but also enriches their experience in enjoying both music and wine, reinforcing the idea that celebrations are best when shared.

The Making of a Classic

The wine itself is crafted from gnarled, ancient vines in California's Lodi region, boasting rich winemaking traditions. These vines, some over a hundred years old, are known for producing grapes with depth of flavor and character, characteristics that align perfectly with the bold style of Gnarly Head wines.

As part of its storied lineage, Gnarly Head has established itself as a celebrated name in California's wine industry since its inception in 2005. The winery’s dedication to sustainable practices reflects a commitment to preserving the land while delivering high-quality wines.

Availability and Pricing

The release of the 2024 Gnarly Head x Grateful Dead Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel has begun shipping to retail stores nationwide, priced at an accessible $12 per bottle. As this is a limited-production offering, enthusiasts are encouraged to seek out this commemorative vintage before it sells out.

For those interested in obtaining this collectible wine or exploring other selections from Gnarly Head, more information is available at gnarlyhead.com or through the brand’s social media channels.

A Legacy Continues

The Grateful Dead, celebrated for their unique connection with fans and their significant contribution to music history, brings an added dimension to this wine release. Their legacy, further immortalized through concert tours and merchandise, resonates deeply with the community of fans they’ve cultivated since their inception in 1965.

In a world increasingly leaning towards individual connection through experiences, the collaboration between Gnarly Head and the Grateful Dead reflects an ongoing commitment to creating memories that will linger well beyond a single sip. Raise your glass to five years of shared stories, music, and exceptional wine—cheers!