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. Turley now makes 28 separate wines from 35 different vineyards, some with vines that date back to the late 1800’s. Tegan Passalacqua is the Director of Winemaking at Turley and has been instrumental in revitalizing the brand.
Pesenti Vineyard is estate-owned and certified organic. The vineyard was planted by the Turley team using cuttings from the Hayne vineyard.
Crimson in color. 15.9% ABV. Big nose of brambly red fruits, cinnamon and earth. Lush and jammy yet remarkably well balanced. Medium body with enough acidity to make things interesting. Raspberry liqueur, cherries, white pepper and figs on the palate. The finish is somewhat muted. Certainly ready to drink.
My rating: 90 points.
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 wines are available via the mailing list and periodically at retail. 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 was a big winner in The 2015 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.
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How does zinfandel from the Pesenti vineyard compare to zinfandel from the Ueberroth vineyard, Tom? Is Pesenti more elegant and Ueberroth more powerful?
Tough question Peter. It would make for a good side by side someday. I think Ueberroth has more power while Pesenti has a little more finesse. That being said there is a house style at Turley that is evident in all their wines.
Okay, thanks much for your viewpoint, Tom. Yes, a side-by-side tasting would be very interesting, to be sure. Cheers!