2019 Turley Zinfandel Kirschenmann Vineyard

The Kirschenmann Vineyard in Lodi is owned and farmed by Turley’s winemaker Tegan Passalacqua. The ungrafted vines were planted in 1915 in the silica-rich sandy soils of the east side of the Mokelumne River AVA in Lodi. Thanks to the river’s cool waters and Sacramento Delta breezes, these head-trained, dry-farmed vines are constantly protected from the heat. In the grand tradition of old-vine field blends, the vineyard has small amounts of Mondeuse, Cinsault and Carignane. The wine is fermented with ambient yeast. It is aged for 15 months in a mix of 80% used oak barrels, 20% new, of which 80% are French oak and 20% American. It is bottled unfined and unfiltered. Tight, well-mastered, really interesting wine with so much character – and not a silly price! California history in a glass. Could be quite refreshing on the finish. This would be great with zampone. A Lodi flagship? (JR)

The medium ruby colored 2019 Zinfandel Kirschenmann Vineyard opens with a bit of tarry reduction over a core of black fruits and spices. The palate is offering much more at this youthful stage. It's packed with dark, spiced fruits and is medium-bodied, soft and fresh with an earthy finish. It has great potential and just needs more time in bottle. 1,220 cases produced.

The 2019 Zinfandel Kirschenmann Vineyard is the finest wine I have tasted off this site yet. Effusive in its aromatics, with striking red berry fruit and gorgeous purity, the Kirschenmann shows the elegance that is possible in Lodi. All the elements come together effortlessly in the glass. The 2019 is such a classy wine.