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.
Cobb Vineyard in Amador County is an homage to Buck Cobb from whom Turley purchased the Karly property where their Amador tasting room resides.
Crimson in color. 15.2% ABV. Heady nose of candied red fruits, licorice, earth and flowers. Medium to full bodied with mouth watering acidity. Bursting with bright, juicy fruits. There is a touch of heat present. Cherry, raspberry liqueur, boysenberry and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. I’ve become a huge fan of the Turley Zins from Amador but the heat here is a little distracting. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 90 points.
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.