93 2011 Carlisle Martinelli Road Zinfandel (Russian River Valley) 7/1/18 ($45)
100% Zinfandel 14.6% alc 426cases
Color: Deep garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Sweet/tart Zinberry fruit (raspberry, boysenberry , blueberry) complemented by eucalyptus, briar and herbs. (3.0) Body: Light heavyweight with excellent fruit, acidity and smooth tannins underneath. Silky, tangy mouthfeel that coats very nicely. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but pretty, delicious fruit is more expressive. (3.5) Finish: Long and smooth, paralleling the flavor. (3.5)
Overall: A gorgeous RRV Zin with distinct, complex flavors and racy acidity balancing ripe fruit, a silky mouthfeel and even some elegance. This is mostly about charming Zin fruit with interesting complexity present, but don't think the complexity is that profound or the fruit is that concentrated that it will improve with time. At its best now and in the next few years. (16.5)
Copyright © 2006 - 2018 Paul DeRose , WineOutpost.com