2003 Turley Zinfandel Rattlesnake Ridge
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Red-ruby. Superripe aromas of red fruits, black plum, chocolate, spice cake and earth. Dense, thick and supersweet, but kept firm by an edge of acidity. flavors of dried fruits are supplemented by a peppery quality on the back end. Finishes with substantial chewy tannins and very good length.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A stunning effort, the 2003 Zinfandel Rattlesnake Ridge (a 350-case cuvee with 15% alcohol) comes from a vineyard adjacent to the Howell Mountain Black Sears Vineyard that the Turleys made so famous. From volcanic soils with a lot of iron and compressed ash, known in California as “tufa,” this is another Rhone Valley-inspired wine offering notes of garrigue, pepper, earth, and kirsch liqueur. Dense and full-bodied with loads of fruit and a cool climate character, it should drink well for 5-6 years or longer. (Release date 4/05) Tel. (707) 963-0940; Fax (707) 963-8683
About the producer
Founded in 1993, Turley Cellars is a leading name in California Zinfandel and Petite Syrah. The winery has helped preserve the state’s old-vine heritage, farming historic vineyards organically and producing distinctive single-vineyard wines known for their character and longevity.