2006 Carlisle Winery Zinfandel "Dry Creek Valley"

Winery: Carlisle Winery

Vintage: 2006

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Dry Creek Valley"

Wine Category: Zinfandel

Grape blend: 100% Zinfandel

Region: Dry Creek Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $33

Cases produced: 385

KWG Score: 93 (based on 4 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (93.99-90)

Review date: July 3, 2008

Wine Review: Sometimes a wine just needs a little air to show off its best qualities. That was the case with this gem from Carlisle. This ruby red wine opens with an inviting spicy blueberry bouquet. Initially this wine enters the mouth smooth and creamy and builds in intensity as it delivers spicy blackberry liquor and black cherry flavors like flavors that come alive on your palate. However, after decanting for some time the intensity settles down nicely and the wine becomes more elegant. The finish is quite dry, a touch acidic, with some lengthy tannins that stick with you for some time. So if you want to enjoy this gem in the short term, decant it and have it with a pepper encrusted steak. If you can cellar it for a year or so or can decant it for a few hours, I think you will have a fine wine for your Filet Mignon. Enjoy – Ken

Winemaker Notes: Medium-dark to dark ruby. Delicious scents of red and black cherries are mixed with hints of iron, earth, and freshly roasted coffee beans. While full-bodied on entry, the petite sirah component quickly flexes its muscle, with sweet tannins appearing in the mid-palate through the lusty finish. Unquestionably our best Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel since the 2002. Optimum drinking should be between late 2008 through 2013. (MRO – 3/1/08)

Organic status: not organic