92 2007 Rockpile (Mauritson) Rockpile Ridge Zinfandel (Rockpile) 4/27/12 ($40)
15.5% alc
Color: Deep garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Concentrated blackberries and some black plum complemented by vanilla and creme de cacao. Ripe and delicious with lively acidity. (3.5) Body: Excellent fruit and acidity with some tannin and a touch of heat. Rich mouthfeel that coats. Heavyweight. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but not quite as distinctive. (3.0) Finish: Shows a slight bitterness from heat, but still delicious. (3.0)
Overall: Outstanding Rockpile style with ripe richness (concentrated blackberries and black plum) and fancy integrated oak (vanilla and creme de cacao) combined with structure in a heavyweight package. It bears its 15.5% alc well, showing just a touch of heat, which should integrate with a little more time. Excellent already, but could improve in the next 2-5 years. (16.0)
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