1996 Zinfandel Whitney Tennessee

This wine (planted in 1898) seems almost claret-like in its civilized, less weighty style. There is gorgeous sweet black cherry and raspberry fruit in the nose, intertwined with earth, licorice, and pepper. Full-bodied and wonderfully concentrated, with a seamless texture and a sensual, smooth as silk finish, it will drink well for 7-8 years. These are the Zinfandels of the 1996 vintage. Critics will whine that they are the most alcoholic wines of the vintage, and yes, they are among the most potent. Yet they are unequivocally the most complex, concentrated, and complete wines of the vintage - offering layers of flavor, extraordinary textures, and unbelievable balance. Readers must certainly be aware of the fact that they have become almost impossible to obtain because of their huge popularity. Zinfandels such as Turley's set the standards for other producers, and encourage people to search out old, head-pruned parcels of Zinfandel vines and treat them as they would Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir - with tender, loving care. Tasting these Zinfandels from bottle is a treat. Tel. (707) 963-0940