Sonoma County Zinfandel

I was a freshman in high school this vintage. This wine has held itself together way better than me.

Another 4th Friday for the books! Insane pulls this month to follow up the most epic month (April) that we’ve ever had!

Keyword for this is muddled cherries. Dusty cocoa dates and clay covered cherries. Tannins are completely integrated. Not much of a spice note. Still has a few years of good fruit.

Wow! This was explosive out of the bottle. Sweet black cherry, raisin, cinnamon and mint. Special. Can only imagine what this cost on release. Great pairing with backgammon and good friends.

I have heard a lot about the ageability of Ravenswood zins and I've had my share of old ones, some good and some bad. This is the best I've had, which surprises me because it is not one of the single vineyard designates like Monte Rosso or Dickerson. Still plenty of fruit, fresh, vibrant, spicy and showing a deep complex secondary profile. A nice slow sipper to end the night.

Obviously over the hill, but, not bad.

Library case bottle 8. The cork was totally blasted and so I’m not sure how good the seal was. Upon opening it was somewhat harsh, acidic and sour. With air, red fruit came out but, unfortunately, the sourness never quite left the finish.

After 6hr open was still concentrated and tight. And then had an almost magical transformation after another hour or so into a beautiful and delicious experience. Incredible that a 40 year old wine can still have that much fruit and life.

Still plenty of fruit but oxidized very quickly.

Back to the future?

Wouldn't guess this is 20yrs old. Still has acidity tannin and fruit. Just a hint of leather. Fun.