2013 Turley Zinfandel Cedarman
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Tasting notes
The 2013 Zinfandel Cedarman is one of the few entry-level wines in this range that needs time. Dark, sweeping and totally voluptuous in the glass, the Cedarman offers compelling depth in its dark red and bluish fruits, new leather, menthol and spices, along with a host of savory notes that develop on the finish. The Cedarman is a blend of fruit from Dragon and Rattlesnake, Turley's two Howell Mountain vineyards, plus a dollop of Petite from Rattlesnake that gives the wine an extra kick of mid-palate depth. Best of all, the Cedarman delivers fabulous value by any measure and remains one of the hidden gem in this extensive lineup.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A Howell Mountain Zinfandel, the 2013 Zinfandel Cedarman Vineyard is a proprietary blend of Zinfandel from both the Rattlesnake Ridge and Dragon Vineyards. A tiny bit of Petite Syrah and Syrah makes it into the final blend. This is profound wine. Inky ruby/purple, with notes of blackcurrants, blackberries and a floral component as well, this full-bodied, stunningly rich, concentrated and structured Zinfandel is loaded. Dense and powerful (15.8% alcohol), the wine will last for 10-15 or more years. This is a great, great effort in what looks to be an unreal vintage in terms of quality for Turley. With a finish that goes on for a good 40-45 seconds, this is amazing stuff.
Once again, the 2013 Zinfandel Cedarman is a real overachiever. Firm tannins lend support to an expressive core of blue/blackish fruit, grilled herbs, licorice, smoke, savory herbs and tobacco that fleshes out in a huge, structured Zinfandel-based red from Turley. Cedarman is essentially a young vines cuvée from Turley's two Howell Mountain properties; Dragon and Rattlesnake Ridge, with a dollop of Petite Sirah, an approach that works beautifully. This is one of the hidden jewels in the Turley lineup, and arguably offers the best quality/personality for the money.
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.