Turley Wine Cellars was founded in 1993 by Larry Turley and specializes in small lots of Zinfandel and Petite Sirah from some of California’s most historic and treasured vineyards. Dragon Vineyard is estate owned and is situated at one of the highest points on Howell Mountain.
Ruby red in color. 15.3% ABV. The wine has a textbook Howell Mountain nose of white pepper, flowers and brambly red fruits. Raspberry, anise, pepper and plums on the palate. Complex, opulent and still somewhat tannic. I wonder if this wine will age like some of the Zins from the 70’s and 80’s made by Ridge and Ravenswood? The wine is definitely a throwback. Drink now or stick in the back of the cellar for a decade and see what happens.
My rating: 91 points.
The current vintage of Dragon Vineyard runs a little over $40 on the Turley mailing list.
Turley wines are available via the mailing list and periodically at retail. Along with other wineries like Carlisle and Bedrock, Turley is at the forefront of the California Zinfandel revolution. This winery is firing on all cylinders and quality has never been better. Highly recommended.
In other news Turley recently opened a Tasting Room in Amador at the location of the former Karly Winery. Without question it’s worth a visit if you are in the area.
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