95+ 2015 Carlisle Papera Ranch Zinfandel (Russian River Valley) 3/17/18 ($47)
96% Zinfandel, 4% Carignane 15.0% alc 1033cases
Color: Very deep cherry garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Crushed black and red raspberries and cherries that are intense. Wow! Complemented by subtle dried herbs and stony minerality. (3.5) Body: Light heavyweight with outstanding fruit and acidity. Intense silky /tangy mouthfeel that coats beautifully. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but fruit is even more expressive. (3.5) Finish: Creamy finish with all the flavors returning again and again. Also has a hint of sugar cane rock candy that I really like. (3.5)
Overall: Intensely tangy and very distinctive Zinberry fruit complemented by subtle dried herbs and stony minerality. Despite its intensity, it remains very well balanced with racy acidity keeping it light on its feet. Absolutely no overripeness or heat here, on the contrary, it's almost lean. Russian River Zinfandel at its Very Very Best!!! I've tasted every vintage of this wine from '07 to the present and this just might be my favorite, at least at this early stage. Drink now and in the next 6 or 7 years. (17)
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