2013 Carlisle "Old Vines" Russian River Valley Zinfandel

“The 2013 Zinfandel Old Vines, a blend from old-vine sites primarily planted between 1881 and 1895, is sensational Zinfandel, tipping the scales at a lofty 15.7% alcohol, but there is not a hint of heat. A terrific nose of cracked black pepper, black raspberries, licorice, earth and fresh meat jumps from the glass of this full-bodied, opulent wine, which also shows striking minerality, no doubt from the ancient vine root systems that go deep into the Russian River soil and bedrock. (RP)” (10/2015)

“Rich and plush, this is jammed to the brim with fruit and personality. Aromas of black raspberry, cinnamon and orange zest combine with ripe flavors balanced by lively acidity, accented by licorice, fresh pepper and a touch of sage. (TF)” (03/2016)

“The 2013 Zinfandel Old Vine hits the palate with a rush of dark red fruit. This is a decidedly immediate, voluptuous wine built on intensity. Sweet spices, tobacco, menthol and licorice are laced into a supple, silky finish layered with attractive floral overtones. This is another fabulous wine from Carlisle. And the price? Absurd. (AG)” (01/2015)

“This is the deal of the century for wine made at this level from vines dating back as far as 1881, the wine sourced from two sites, the Saitone and Banfield ranches. Yeasty baked bread and juicy strawberry commingle around black currant and blood orange, the texture smoothly seductive, with a cradling of dried herb as a back note. *Editors' Choice* (VB)” (07/2016)