1996 Turley Petite Sirah Aida Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Turley continues to offer two of the blackest, densest, richest Petite Syrahs ever produced in California. Alongside its siblings, the 1996 Petite Syrah Aida Vineyard looks like a wimp with only 13.8% alcohol, but what concentration and intensity this wine offers. From a 4.5-acre vineyard, only 3 tons of fruit were harvested in 1996. The result is an opaque purple-colored wine with a dense, mineral, earthy, peppery, blackberry-scented nose, huge, ripe, thick flavors, gobs of glycerin and fruit, and a long, moderately tannic finish. My guess is that this wine requires 5-6 years of cellaring, and will keep for 2-3 decades. These wines sell out quickly, so readers should try to get their names on the winery's mailing list. Tel. (707) 963-0940; Fax (707) 963-8683.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Ridiculously opaque black-ruby color. Multidimensional aromas of black raspberry, gunpowder, pepper and brown spices; rather syrah-like. Very tightly wound and uncompromising today; currently hiding its fruit. Intriguing hint of violet. Very difficult to taste after the Hayne zinfandel. Finishes with slightly dry, dusty tannins. Will this eventually deliver what it promises on the nose?
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.