In earlier times, eggs were forbidden to Catholics during the fast of Lent, which was the reason for the abundance of eggs at Easter time. As early as the 1500s, German Protestants wanted to retain the Catholic custom of eating colored eggs for Easter, but did not want to introduce their children to the Catholic rite of fasting. The story of “Oschter Haws” was created. “Haws” means “hare,” and was a fertility symbol of the new life during the spring season. Only the good children would find a gift of colored eggs in a basket on Easter.

So now for those of you who gave up wine for Lent, your wait is almost over! Here are a couple of “eggs” that will assure you of your goodness and allow you to celebrate Easter in style:

Klinker Brick 2012 Old Vine Zinfandel

Klinker bricks were highly prized bricks chosen by craftsmen architects in the 1920s for their distinctive qualities, including unique shapes and dark, rich color; they are denser and heavier in weight than regular bricks. “Klinker” refers to the unusual sound that they make when banged together, because of their density. The winery chose that name because their old vine zinfandel exhibited the same unique qualities as a Klinker brick. The 2012 vintage is a blend of 16 different vineyard blocks of old vine zinfandel with an average age of 85 years. With berries and spice on the nose, dark, sweet fruit fills the palate with just a hint of black pepper. This wine has a long, lingering finish. Take this one along if you’re having a family picnic on Easter, It’s perfect for burgers, ribs or barbeque.

The Grinder 2012 Pinotage

The Grinder's success starts in the vineyard where the result of the combination of soil, wind, rainfall and prevailing temperatures produce superior pinotage berries of great intensity. The vineyards range between the ages of 12 and 15 years — now entering their prime of life for producing superior wines. The use of specific yeast strains and the abundancy of toasted oak produces the signature mocha and coffee overlay to the bright berry fruit character that the grinder has become known for. The character is complex with meaty, black cherry, raspberry and slightly candied aromas on the lush and full palate. If you are serving a more traditional Easter meal, this wine is perfect with smoked meats, lamb, venison, goose, fruit, cream and butter sauces and dark chocolate Easter bunnies!