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 an estate-owned and certified organic vineyard. Planted at 2400 feet at one of the highest points on Howell Mountain, the vineyard sits well above the fog line and faces east.
Magenta in color. 16% ABV. Ripe red fruits, warm cherry pie, pepper and lavender on the nose. Medium body with just enough acidity. Black pepper, raspberry and blackberry on the palate. More restrained than I expected. I think the fruit is starting to fade ever so slightly. Elegant and light on the finish. Certainly ready to drink.
My rating: 90 points.
Turley wines are available via the mailing list and periodically at retail.
With all due respect to Carlisle and Bedrock, Turley is arguably the best Zinfandel producer in California. Exceptional vineyards sources throughout the state of California and no detail spared in the winemaking process. The wines are simply better than ever.
Turley has tasting rooms in both Amador and Paso Robles. If you are not on the mailing list, this is an easy way to secure bottles. Both are not to be missed if you are in the area.
Turley has appeared in The Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings for the last 3 years.
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Have had many young Turleys that I’ve loved but recently had an 05 estate petite shirah from turley that blew me away!