94 2012 Turley Dragon Zinfandel (Howell Mtn) 12/28/15 ($45)
15.7 % alc
Color: Very deep garnet. (3.5) Bouquet: Black pepper and other cooking spices complement ripe black plum, more ripe than the Rattlesnake. Somewhat restrained, but more open than the Rattlesnake, showing intersting nuances of nutty candy and slight petrol. (3.0) Body: Heavyweight with outstanding fruit and excellent acidity. Smooth and silky. (3.5) Flavor: The tart black plum fruit and spicy candy flavors are wonderful here. (3.5) Finish: Repeats flavor, maybe not quite as intense. (3.5)
Overall: Fantastic balance and beautiful, ripe (yet tart) black plum fruit really drive this with elusive structure underneath and interesting cooking spice nuances. So open and delicious now, there is really no need to wait, but could even improve in the next few years. (17)
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