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 right around 50 separate wines from 47 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.
Juvenile is composed of a variety of young vines that have been replanted in several of Turley’s old vine sites. They tag the younger vines then pick them separately and make a distinct wine. Juvenile vines range in age from about 6-25 years.
Purple in color. 15.2% ABV. Subdued nose of red fruits, cocoa and pepper. Medium body with medium acidity. Less upfront fruit than I would have expected. Cherry, blood orange, cranberry and earth on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Somewhat unique but slightly underwhelming for the vintage. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 89 points.
The 2022 version of this wine will be released in next Spring and cost around $20.
With all due respect to Carlisle, Turley is arguably the best Zinfandel producer in California. Certainly the scale of the operation is second to none. 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 fared well in The 2020 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.