1999 Turley Zinfandel Duarte Vineyard
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Tasting notes
I often notice a resiny/balsam wood character in Turley's Contra Costa offering. The 1999 Zinfandel Duarte Vineyard (560 cases, 15.8% natural alcohol) is produced from 104-year old vines planted in pure sand. A wonderful expression of purity and sweetness, it offers sweet black cherry liqueur, strawberry, pepper, kirsch, raspberry, and spice aromas. I also detected a complex note of volatile acidity. Long, deep, intense, and well-textured, it will drink well for 7-8 years. Tel. (707) 963-0940
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Bright, deep ruby. Aromatic nose of cranberry, bitter chocolate and cracked pepper; superripe yet bright. Thick but utterly suave in the mouth, with intense, bright berry flavors of noteworthy complexity. "A perfect example of a vineyard that benefitted from the cooler, later harvest," notes Jordan. Finishes with dusty but even tannins and excellent length. This was strong in '98 as well.
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.