2005 Murphy Goode Zinfandel "Snake Eyes"

Winery: Murphy Goode

Vintage: 2005

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Snake Eyes"

Wine Category: Zinfandel

Grape blend: 100% Zinfandel

Region: Alexander Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $35

Cases produced: 943

KWG Score: 91 (based on 4 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (91)

Review date: February 25, 2009

Wine Review: It seems that every year in our Zin tasting an older wine sneaks into one of the top slots in our blind tasting. This year it was the 2005 “Snake Eyes” Zin from Murphy Goode. This wine finished in second place. This dark ruby colored Zin opens with a light spicy boysenberry bouquet. On the palate, this medium bodied wine is very well balanced and silky with delicious spicy black cherry flavors with a hint of chocolate. The finish is dry and its persistent tannins sail on for quite some time. The panel would pair the food friendly Zin with a filet mignon or even a tuna steak. Enjoy - KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: "Every year I search for the best Zinfandel fruit that the Alexander Valley produces and that is what goes into our Snake Eyes Zinfandel. This year the honor has been bestowed upon Nancy Ellis Dalziel, the 5th generation owner of Ellis Ranch. This 70-year-old vineyard tends to be low yielding, with small clusters and berries that create a highly concentrated wine with rich color. Our 2005 Snake Eyes Zinfandel has flavors of black raspberry and blackberry jam. While the wine drinks great now, it also has strong tannins that make it suitable for aging." - DAVID READY, Jr.

Organic status: not organic