93 2016 Carlisle Montafi Ranch Zinfandel (Russian River Valley) 12/1/18 ($47)
89% Zinfandel, 11% Mixed Blacks (Alicante Bouschet, Aubun, Grand Noir, Petite Sirah, Peloursin, Trousseau Noir, Syrah, Petit Bouschet, Cinsault) 15.0% alc 663cases
Color: Deep purple garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Subtle incense, dried herbs and menthol complement wild blueberry and boysenberry fruit. Expressive and distinctive. (3.5) Body: Light heavyweight with excellent fruit and acidity. Well balanced with a tangy, somewhat silky mouthfeel. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet with some anise thrown in. (3.5) Finish: Long and pretty, but not quite as distinctive as the bouquet yet. (3.0)
Overall: Classic Montafi with incense, herbs, menthol and anise complemented by distinctive blue fruit with wonderful old vines character. As is often true of Montafi, it is drinking beautifully right out the gate, but should improve in the next 4-6 years. A Russian River beauty that almost never disappoints. (16.5)
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