2017 Carlisle Zinfandel Mancini Ranch
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Tasting notes
"This is another vineyard that was hit hard by the heat, and we had to do severe sorting," says Jake Bilbro of the 95-year-old Mancini Ranch vines. "In 2016, we made twice as much." Aged in 30% new French oak, the 2017 Zinfandel Mancini Ranch contains 15% mixed black varieties: Carignane, Abouriou, Valdiguié, Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir and Petite Sirah. Deep ruby-purple, it has a gorgeous perfume of warm peach cobbler, apricot, brown sugar crumble, chocolate-covered cherries, raspberries, blue fruit preserves and hints of olive and charcuterie. It's medium to full-bodied, slowly fleshing out in the mouth, framed with gently chewy tannins and juicy acidity on the long, layered finish. 158 cases were made.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Zinfandel Mancini Ranch checks in 85% Zinfandel with the balance a mix of 8-9 other varieties. It has a Southern Rhône-like bouquet of ripe berry fruits, ground pepper, smoked earth, and even a touch of exotic orange blossom. Supple, medium to full-bodied, fruit forward, and already delicious, drink it over the coming 8-10 years.
The 2017 Zinfandel Mancini Ranch is wonderfully alive and vibrant. Bright acids and floral aromatics add an attractive upper register to the red cherry, plum and pomegranate fruit. Energetic and poised, the Mancini Ranch is a star. There is so much to like here. Sadly, yields are down 50% because of the rigorous sorting that was required to cull out sunburned fruit. The Mancini is approximately 85% Zinfandel and 15% mixed blacks, which add complexity.