2014 Turley Zinfandel Rattlesnake Ridge
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Zinfandel Rattlesnake Ridge is a bit more immediate than the Dragon, which is literally right across the street. Red-fleshed stone fruits, tobacco, cedar and herbs open up first. Silky, polished tannins add to an impression of creaminess and finesse. The Rattlesnake is surprisingly gracious, but its balance is beyond reproach.
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Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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Turley has always excelled with high-elevation sites on Howell Mountain. From a site at 2,600 feet, the 2014 Zinfandel Rattlesnake Ridge (15.6% alcohol) is a beauty, with floral notes intermixed with cool, bluish fruits, raspberry, forest floor and spice all present in this dense, ruby/purple wine that cuts a broad swath across the palate. Like all of these wines, despite the high-octane alcohol, there is not a sense of heaviness or burn. This is beautiful, pure, rich, multidimensional Zinfandel to drink over the next 7-8 years. It is a beauty.
Turley's 2014 Zinfandel Rattlesnake Ridge presents a more exuberant, racy side of Howell Mountain, along with a touch more aromatic presence as well. Sweet red cherry, plum, mint, cinnamon and pomegranate meld into the sensual, silky finish. This is an especially polished vintage for the Rattlesnake.
About the producer
Founded in 1993, Turley Cellars is a leading name in California Zinfandel and Petite Syrah. The winery has helped preserve the state’s old-vine heritage, farming historic vineyards organically and producing distinctive single-vineyard wines known for their character and longevity.