2019 Turley Zinfandel Judge Bell
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Tasting notes
The 2019 Zinfandel Judge Bell Vineyard is a potent, somewhat rough around the edges wine with wild aromatics and plenty of personality. There is no shortage of character here. The Judge Bell is a bit unruly, but it works. The expression of fruit is a bit riper than in some of the other Amador wines. As has been the case in the past, the 2019 feels not totally put together. It will be interesting to see if it comes together more fully with time.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Pale ruby, the 2019 Zinfandel Judge Bell is bright and fresh, with a nose of red berries, apricots, citrus peel and amaro spices. The medium-bodied palate surprises with its depth and purity of flavor and is seamlessly structured, finishing very long and perfumed. It's a gorgeous expression of Judge Bell that deserves another year or two in bottle. 1,010 cases produced.
The 2019 Zinfandel Judge Bell Vineyard is attractive, but it is also still coming together after its bottling a few weeks before this tasting. Gracious and medium in body, the Judge Bell offers striking Zinfandel character in a deceptively mid-weight style that packs plenty of punch. My impression is that the 2019 needs at least a few years to start hitting its stride.
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.