Marionberry
A. Rafanelli
Unfiltered Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel 2021
Splash decanted and then poured back into the bottle about 5 hours prior to dinner. This is my first impression of the 2021 Zinfandel which is even more exciting than usual because the 2020 vintage was skipped due to the LNU Lightning Complex fires which rendered that crop a write-off. The wine pours a deep ruby color with a translucent core moving towards a magenta edge and a slightly watery rim. Medium+ viscosity and moderate staining of the tears. There seems to be some sediment already, however this is not uncommon with bottles of Rafanelli both young and old. On the nose, the wine is clean although I do detect some VA, well within the “charming” range. Very expressive fresh red and black fruits, primarily brambles: Marionberry, ripe blackberry fruit, and raspberries. These are accompanied by white pepper and soft baking spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. Alcohol is medium+ but not out of balance. Finish is medium. As usual, these wines upon release tend to be super primary but I like what I’m experiencing! Personally, I would recommend some patience when drinking these young. While they are no-doubt good, they tend to fill out with some time on their side in the cellar. Best after 2024 and should drink well through 2035. Oh…and this was an awesome pairing with grilled rack of lamb. — a year ago
Belle Glos
Las Alturas Vineyard Pinot Noir
Absolutely delicious pinot. Black cherry, marionberry, plum, and anise. — a year ago
Jay Kline
High altitude, century-old Tempranillo produced by Mariano Garcia and his sons? Yes please. Popped and poured; enjoyed over two days. Better on Day 2. The 2019 Garmón pours a deep purplish ruby with what’s essentially an opaque core; medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with beautiful notes of dark fruit: dark cherries, Marionberry, figs, roasted red peppers, bay leaf, dry earth, cedar, and gentle baking spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannins and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes on the nose. The finish is long and rich and super satisfying. To be frank, this was merely a good wine on Day 1. On Day 2, this was showing some serious quality and impeccable balance. The best sip was the last sip. You can drink now with a huge decant but these will be better after 2029 and should drink very well through 2040+. — a month ago