91+(?) 2016 Turley Dragon Zinfandel (Howell Mtn) 12/31/18 ($55)
15.5% alc
Color: Very deep purple garnet. (3.5) Bouquet: Clove, cinnamon, minerals and mocha-cedar complement rich old vines blackberries and boysenberries. (3.5) Body: Heavyweight with excellent acidity, tannins and fruit underneath. Tangy, somewhat astringent mouthfeel that coats. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but less forward with bitterness from oak getting in the way of the fruit. (2.5) Finish: Parallels flavor, but not quite as bitter and the interesting nuances from the bouquet re-surface. (3.0)
Overall: A full-bodied, ageworthy Dragon that shows the minerality and exotic spice for which this vineyard is known. Unfortunately, it seems to be a little over-oaked at this point, which masks the old vines fruit. Hopefully the oak will integrate with 4-6 years bottle age. Still enjoyable now after a long decanting, but should be served with hearty food. (15.5)
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