2006 Carlisle Zinfandel Carlisle Vineyard

The same can be said for the 2006 Zinfandel Carlisle Vineyard, which exhibits a dark ruby/purple color in addition to vivid aromatics of earth, new saddle leather, pepper, black raspberries, sweet kirsch, and smoke. Full-bodied, rich, ripe, and pure, it is a total hedonistic as well as intellectual turn-on. Mike Officer is quickly rising to the top of the qualitative pyramid when it comes to Zinfandel, and, more recently, Petite Sirah and Syrah. Working from old vine Zinfandel vineyards in Dry Creek, Sonoma, and Russian River, he is giving some of Napa’s top-notch Zinfandel producers, such as Biale and Turley, a run for their money. Starting as a home winemaker in 1998, Officer is now zeroing in on a 5,000 case production of wines that are poster children for hedonism and exuberant joy. Carlisle’s 2007s reveal that vintage’s luscious fruit. Syrah should be selling better in the marketplace than it does. Perhaps consumers are confused by the ocean of cheap Shiraz from Australia, and fail to recognize how much quality California Syrah offers. Carlisle’s Syrahs are all noteworthy efforts. Brilliant winemaking, a highly committed proprietor, and extraordinarily fair prices make Carlisle a no-brainer for wine consumers looking for fun. Tel. (707) 566-7700; Fax (707) 566-7200