2016 Carlisle Zinfandel Mancini Ranch

Another awesome Zinfandel blend from Mike, the 2016 Zinfandel Mancini Ranch is 85% Zinfandel and the rest a mix of assorted varieties, from vines planted in 1922, all aged in 21% new French oak. Crème de cassis, plums, cedary spice, and crushed flowers notes, medium to full body, fine, elegant tannin, and an ethereal, seamless texture all make for a thrilling, awesome wine that can be drunk anytime over the coming decade or more. Winemakers Mike Officer and Jay Maddox have hit pay dirt with these latest 2016s and across the board, they’re the finest set of releases I’ve tasted from this estate. While Mike’s wines are always deeply colored and powerful, the more elegant, balanced style of the 2016 vintage is front and center and these 2016s just glide over the palate, with perfectly integrated fruit, tannin, and acidity. In addition, most are approachable today given their purity of fruit, yet they’re going to evolve beautifully on their balance. Hats off to the team here and readers should not miss these wines!