1997 Turley Petite Sirah Aida Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 1997 Petite Syrah Aida Vineyard (from 80-year old vines) assaults the palate with such an overload of fruit, tannin, and extract that the taster's first impression is that this is something more than table wine. It is a massive, almost uncivilized, wildly out of control Petite Syrah that will require 10-15 years of cellaring, and last for 30 or more. I have been conservative in my judgment because the tannin nearly melted the fillings in my teeth, but this is an amazing, astonishing wine that will be fascinating to follow over the next 3-4 decades. Lamentably, it will certainly outlive me. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2040. Turley Cellars' Petite Syrahs are the most amazing wines ever produced from this varietal. Petite Sirah tends to be disparaged, but when it is made from low yields and extremely ripe fruit, it possesses 2-3 decades of aging potential, and can reach astonishing levels of complexity. Tel. (707) 963-0940; Fax (707) 963-8683
Critic scores
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Dark ruby-purple. Aromas of chocolate and damp earth; suggestion of Madeira. Dry, tough and rather charmless today; I can't find the fruit. Quite tannic. Strange wine-but then young Turley wines from this vineyard have always been awkward in their youth. Judgment deferred, but not recommended.
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.