92 2001 Ridge York Creek Zin – Late Picked 4/16/05 ($28)
Color: Very deep purple-garnet (4.0) Bouquet: Very ripe, concentrated Zinberry fruit propelled by excellent acidity and alcohol (15.9%) with thyme and oregano spices and a significant oak component in balance with the rest. Has a slight over-the-top edge to it, but still beautiful. (3.5) Body: Fine balance of fruit-to-acid-to-tannin-to-oak. The oak and alcohol add some bitterness and heat at this point, but nothing that the wine can’t overcome with a little age. A heavyweight and then some. (3.0) Flavor: Delicious and concentrated, paralleling bouquet step-for-step. Also has a vibrancy that coats the mouth, which is impressive. (3.5) Finish: Bitter oak and alc are most present here, although fruit and spice linger with some chalkiness thrown in. (2.0)Overall: An impressively powerful and concentrated Zin with intense, delicious fruit, particularly for York Creek. More than a bit over-the-top, but not overripe. Somehow I suspect it will hold together and possibly even improve over the next 2-5 years. Keep your fingers crossed and continue to drink it in the mean time as it’s delicious. (16.0)