Newsletter & Tasting Notes — Turley Wine Cellars

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2021 vintage

2024 Winter Release

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2024 Winter Release

The prodigal son returns!

                                    

Tasting Notes

2024 winter release

2022 Turley “estate” cabernet sauvignon, Napa Valley

Organically-farmed, single-vineyard estate Napa Cabernet Sauvignon—not a statement that can be made by many! Planted in 1989 on the volcanic and alluvial soils found in northern Napa Valley, this vineyard forms the eastern border of the Turley estate and is framed by ancient majestic oak trees and a 150-year-old olive grove.

Certified organic, estate-owned, single-vineyard fruit from our home in the heart of Napa Valley. Classic, compelling, and comforting, our Cabernet hits all the right notes. Red cherry, leather, lavender, graphite, and sweet spices on the nose. The palate is structured yet approachable, with a supple, satisfying texture and just enough tannin to frame the fruit. Rewardingly ready to enjoy now, no decanting necessary!

2022 Turley “dragon Vineyard” cabernet sauvignon, howell mountain

When we first planted the Dragon Vineyard, the fact that Howell Mountain is hallowed ground for Cabernet Sauvignon did not escape us. Thus, though we filled the vast majority of the site with Zinfandel, we also planted a small parcel with Cabernet Sauvignon. And boy, are we glad we did.

Nestled atop Howell Mountain at 2200 feet, this certified organic vineyard harkens from some of the most desirable Cabernet terroir in the country. Inky and intense, with wild brambly fruit, savory earth, game, and alpine herbs and spices. Unmistakably Howell Mountain on the palate, with incredible structure, extraordinary power, and deep, dynamic, layered myriad flavor. Give it a generous decant to drink now, or lay to rest for years to come.

2014 Turley “delinquent” port-style zinfandel, paso robles

This late-harvest, port-style wine has been made only twice before at Turley, in 1998 and 2001. In 2014, we had an opportunity to revive this n’er-do-well of a wine, this time using fruit from Paso Robles.

After a 20 year hiatus, Delinquent returns! This late-harvest Zinfandel was fortified with neutral brandy and aged for five years in barrel and an additional five years in bottle. Sweet, ripe blackberry aromas launch from the glass alongside black cherry, raspberry, fig, and baking spices; akin to a piping hot, heaping fruit pie, straight from the oven. Dense yet soft on the palate, with an appealing, honeyed texture; an absolute homerun for the holidays. Pair it with an array of cheeses, pie, flourless chocolate cake, or savor it solo—this powerfully potent, port-style wine will bring delight to any table.

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2022 Vintage Fall Release

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2022 Vintage Fall Release

Old Vines, Young Love

                                    

Tasting Notes

2022 vintage — fall release

A note on our winemaking:

All of our vineyards are either certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers or somewhere in the process, and we use all natural yeasts in the fermentations. The below single vineyard designate wines are aged in 80% used oak barriques, of which 80% are French (the rest American) and bottled after 15-18 months in barrel.

2022 Turley “Dupratt” Zinfandel, Mendocino county

Planted in 1919 at 1500 feet up on Mendocino Ridge, this vineyard is surrounded by giant Redwood trees, forming a little island in the sky. Indeed, the site is so remote that the vines still survive on their own original roots as Phylloxera has never made its way up there. Located above the town of Philo and only 5 miles from the Pacific Ocean, it is the northernmost, coolest site from which we’ve ever made wine. Though we’ve worked with Mendocino fruit for many years, DuPratt is the only Mendocino County bottling from Turley.

A destination worth the distance, this remote, secluded old vine Mendocino mountain vineyard was planted in 1919 at 1500 ft. Wild blackberry pie, sauvage and inky, pine needles, anise, garrigue, sweet fennel, gunmetal, iron—the list of layers in this wine is endless, as is its finish. Incredible elegance and depth on the palate echoes the never-ending nose. This wine isn’t Old World or New World—it’s a whole other world altogether.  We strongly recommend laying this wine down for at least 1-2 years and decanting ahead of time!

2022 Turley “Dogtown Vineyard” Zinfandel, Lodi

Planted in 1944, the Dogtown Vineyard is organically farmed by Turley Wine Cellars. This head-trained, own-rooted vineyard is within the Clements Hills AVA, which has more varied topography than the rest of Lodi; thus, while most vineyards in the region were furrow irrigated, the rolling hills of iron-rich clay and volcanic soil in Dogtown have been dry-farmed from the start. The vineyard has some of the most consistently low yields and best natural acidity of any other we’ve farmed.

A jewel of Lodi, these organically farmed ungrafted vines were planted in 1944. A compelling nose of red fruit tea, hibiscus and autumnal notes, savory & satisfying. Supple and sweet fruits on the palate, with a long, generous finish. Speaking of length, we’ve made this single-vineyard wine for over 27 years, and it shows; this is mastery of the vine.

2022 Turley “monte rosso vineyard” Zinfandel, sonoma Valley

Located along the western and Sonoma side of the Mayacamas Mountains is the historic Monte Rosso vineyard. Called “red mountain” for its iron-rich volcanic soils, our block of Monte Rosso’s sloping hills was planted in 1893. Ranging in elevation from 700 to 1300 feet, these vines sit primarily above the fog line, with the city of San Francisco and the San Pablo Bay visible on a clear day. This prestigious vineyard is shared by many colleagues in the Zinfandel and larger wine world, and is widely considered one of the most notable sites both for the age of the vines as well as the superiority of the wines they produce.

Legendary late 1800s vineyard on Moon Mtn., along the southeastern edge of the Mayacamas. The (all too rare) joy of a perfectly ripe blueberry, combined with freshly turned red earth, cinnamon & mint, potters clay, currants, cherries, and a faint suggestion of tobacco leaf. Utterly seamless on the palate, with sophisticated balance, polished mountain tannins, and the Katie Ledecky of finishes—it shines in its length.

2022 Turley “Judge Bell” Zinfandel, Amador County

As our Amador winery is located on Bell Road, we named this wine for the eponymous (and notorious) Judge Bell, who presided over the nearby town of Plymouth during its Gold Rush heyday. Harking from own-rooted vines planted in 1907, the wine shows quintessential Amador granitic tannins and briary fruits.

Ungrafted vines planted 1907 in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Botanical, almost Charterusian complexity, with dried strawberries & raspberries, blood orange, traces of tar and ripe peach around the pit. Palate is immensely well-framed, with satisfyingly spiky texture and signature tannins.

2022 Turley “Ueberroth Vineyard” Zinfandel, Paso Robles

Planted in 1885, Ueberroth is the oldest of our Zinfandel vineyards. Located closer to the sea than any other site we work with, you can smell the salt air from the top of the vineyard hill. These ungrafted, head-trained vines are planted on very steep limestone slopes. The high pH of the soil makes for a very high-acid wine, elevating the powerful ripe fruit flavors from this historic certified organic vineyard.

Certified organic, ungrafted vines over 130 years old; a “grand cru” site of Paso Robles. Transcendent. Lovely sweet red fruits, loads of spice and pepper, violets, chalk, even a hint of pineapple grass on the nose. White stones and wild strawberries in a lovely pas de deux on the palate, with vibrant energy and finesse. What a knockout.

2022 Turley “Brandlin Ranch” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

Located atop Mount Veeder, on the eastern and Napa side of the Mayacamas Mountains, this historic site was first settled in the 1870s by the Brandlin family, who ran the local stagecoach. They first planted grapevines in 1926, and we are honored to be working with the Zinfandel from that original planting. Sitting between 900-1250 feet in decomposed granite soils, slate, and schist, these dry-farmed vines see a long growing season, low yields, and high concentration. One sip and it’s easy to see why this is the most legendary vineyard on Mount Veeder.

Historic 1926 Zinfandel vineyard atop Mt. Veeder, along the steep southern edge of the Mayacamas Mountains. Extensive dark fruits incl wild mountain blackberries, earth, and Thai spices on the nose. Palate has wild cherries and raspberries, salty ocean air, and a lengthy, lingering finish.

2022 Turley “DUSI Vineyard” Zinfandel, PASO ROBLES

The Dusi vineyard was planted by Dante Dusi in 1945, and is farmed by his family to this day. The vines are head-trained and dry-farmed, planted in soil that is primarily alluvial with some rather large rocks. Like our other Paso vineyards, Dusi is located in the Templeton Gap AVA, the cooler climate area on the west side of the region.

Planted 1945 and still farmed by the Dusi family. Fragrant, ripe red fruits at the forefront, with lift, energy, and approachability. Raspberry preserves and a hint of chocolate on the palate, with a luscious, velvety, prolonged finish.

2022 Turley “Fredericks Vineyard” Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley

Hailing from 1937, these certified organic vines are some of the most unique we’ve ever seen. Just a mile and a half from the Napa border on the Sonoma side of the Mayacamas, the vines are planted along steep, contoured terraces. Finding old vineyards is rare enough, but ancient hillside head-trained vines located 900 feet up? Downright extraordinary.

Certified organic, planted 1937 at about 1000 ft. up Moon Mountain. Currants, cassis, blue fruits, earthy spices, graphite; if I didn’t know better I’d think this was mountain Cabernet! Silky dark fruits, minerality, long and lifted, rustic yet graceful on the palate.

2022 Turley “Hayne Vineyard” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

The Hayne Vineyard is one of our most exceptional sites. Located in an idyllic warm yet breezy spot on the west side of St. Helena, we are honored to have worked with this vineyard and the Hayne family for over twenty-six years. The property has been in the same family since 1876, and the head-trained, dry-farmed Zinfandel vines, planted in 1902 and 1903, produce wines of power and elegance. Year after year, this wine serves as the archetype for Zinfandel and Napa Valley.

The 30th vintage of this Napa Valley “grand cru,” planted 1902-03! Roses, apricot, dark fruits, sous bois, blue steel, powerful, rich & energetic; Hayne is the G.O.A.T. for good reason. Exceptional elegance immediately apparent in the depth and complete focus on the nose as well as the incomparable structure and supple texture on the palate. The epitome of what great grapes can do.

2022 Turley “RATTLESNAKE RIDGE Vineyard” Zinfandel, HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Rattlesnake Ridge is a certified organic, estate-owned vineyard. Located at the top of Howell Mountain at about 2600 feet, the vines see more sun here than they would on the valley floor; however, it is much colder due to the elevation, and can even snow in the winter. All combined, these factors make for a truly unique wine: bold flavors, and a tannin and acid backbone that can only come from Howell Mountain.

Certified organic estate vines planted at 2400 ft. on a windswept ridge overlooking Napa Valley. Fragrant nose of herbs de Provence, roast meats, cracked pepper, and dark fruits. More nimble and lithe on the palate than the nose would have you believe, layered and lively with the power and texture that are the trademarks of Howell Mountain.

2022 Turley “Zampatti Vineyard” Zinfandel, Sonoma County

Located in Sonoma County, Zampatti is nearly hidden in downtown Santa Rosa. Planted in 1915 on 2.5 acres, the vineyard is farmed organically by Alida Morzenti, granddaughter of the Zampattis. The Zinfandel vines are interspersed with little-known white grapes Palomino and Golden Chasselas, and planted on a cool sloping site with large rocks scattered throughout the warm Franciscan soils. The wines are balanced, aromatic, bright and beautiful. 

A miniscule jewel of an organic vineyard, planted 1915. Spiced fruits, baked plums, blackberry, and pomegranate alongside aromatic holiday seasonings on the nose. Palate is electrifyingly bright, with refined, persistent and luscious blood orange and black pepper. Perfumed and polished, Zampatti is always a favorite.

2022 Turley “Old Vines” Zinfandel, California

Old Vines is composed of a variety of venerable sites from California that are either too small to be made into a vineyard designate wine or are “new” to the Turley family (and way of farming). Vines are anywhere from 50 to 130 years old, and a true representation of California old vine Zinfandel, hailing from vineyards in Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Contra Costa, Amador and Paso Robles. There is no better way to gauge the classic character of old vine Zinfandel in California than through this wine.

The sage, autumnal older sister to the spring verve of the Juvenile, Old Vines encompasses everything we stand for at Turley. Teeming with dark berries, currants, baking spices, earth, and a sprinkle of petrichor on the nose. The palate is brooding yet supple, serious yet satisfying. Inherently embodies the depth, complexity, and grace that can only come from old vines. Delicious.

2022 Turley “The White Coat” White Wine, California

The White Coat (named for Larry’s past career as an Emergency Room physician) is composed of white Rhône grapes from three of our Estate vineyards across California. The rich, textured Roussanne from Rattlesnake Ridge on Howell Mountain in Napa is moderated by acidity and structure provided by the Grenache Blanc grown in the calcareous soils of the Pesenti Vineyard in Paso Robles. Finally, the blend is rounded out with a touch of refreshing, mineral Vermentino (also known as Rolle) from the granitic and quartz-laden Cobb Vineyard in Amador. The result is an exceptional, dynamic white wine that is truly California.

Our signature white blend of Grenache Blanc, Vermentino, and Roussanne, all white grapes hailing originally from the Rhône Valley. Positively bursting with pineapple, guava, and lychee alongside sun-warmed white stone on the nose. Palate is richly dynamic and surprisingly spry, with honeysuckle, white pepper, and apricot jam. So good I could spit (but I won’t!)

2022 Turley “Library Vineyard” Petite Syrah, Napa Valley

The Library Vineyard is one of the most unique vineyards in California. Planted between 1880 and 1920 directly behind the St. Helena Public Library, the vineyard is very varietally diverse. Primarily Petite Syrah vines mix with a myriad of others, including; Peloursin, Cinsault, Syrah, Mission, Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir, Carignan, Grenache and Zinfandel. There are also several white grapes such as Muscat Alexandria, Muscadelle, Burger, and Green Hungarian. We pick them all together to make a wine truly expressive of the vineyard. 

Cherished in the community, this incredibly varietally diverse vineyard was planted 1880-1920. Violets, lavender, blueberry, blackberry, smoked meats, and freshly spilled ink. Svelte, silken, richly fruited and chalk-full of flavor on the palate. A wine to inspire.

2022 Turley “Hayne Vineyard” Petite Syrah, Napa Valley

Otty Hayne planted the Hayne Petite Syrah in 1953 while he was home from college visiting his grandfather. All head-trained, dry-farmed and organic, this Petite Syrah vineyard is one of the most exceptional sites in California. The wine is powerful and inky in its youth, and becomes more elegant and refined with age. Likely to outlive us all.

The 30th vintage of Hayne Petite Syrah! Alongside it’s Zinfandel counterpart, this Petite has the most history and longevity of any wine for Turley. Three decades cultivating this vineyard for its treasures, and it shows. Plum, pain grillé, blackberry, and dark florals abound. Utterly palate-coating and concentrated, everything you want in a Petite Syrah with elegance at the forefront. This wine is one for the ages.

2022 Turley “RATTLESNAKE RIDGE Vineyard” PETITE SYRAH, HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Above St. Helena on the north-eastern ridge of Napa Valley, the Petite Syrah from the certified organic Rattlesnake Ridge Vineyard is another fantastic expression of Howell Mountain. Dark, powerful, inky, funky; this high-elevation, sun-drenched yet cool and windy site brings out the best characteristics of Petite Syrah.

Certified organic vines planted at 2400 ft above Napa Valley. Piercing aromatics of pepper, garrigue, petrichor, wild game, and forest floor. This is a sylvan, mountain-dweller of a wine, roasting venison over an open fire before laying to rest in a well-appointed cabin. Purple fruits, wild violets, spice, and rocky, rugged mountain texture round out the palate. This wine is an experience.

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2022 Vintage Spring Release

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2022 Vintage Spring Release

Horizontal lineup of our 2021 vintage Spring Release wines atop a buffet and backed by a rich colored tapestry.

Tasting Notes

2022 vintage — spring release

A note on our winemaking:

All of our vineyards are either certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers or somewhere in the process, and we use all natural yeasts in the fermentations. The below single vineyard designate wines are aged in 80% used oak barriques, of which 80% are French (the rest American) and bottled after 15-18 months in barrel.

2022 Turley “Juvenile” Zinfandel, California

Though the vast majority of our wines are single vineyard designates, Juvenile is actually composed of a variety of young vines that have been replanted in several of our old vine sites.We tag the younger vines then pick them separately and make a distinct wine. Juvenile vines range in age from about 6-25 years, and we pull from a selection of our best vineyards across California.

Bright cherry, ripe berries, and rose petal on the nose. All these and more are echoed on the palate alongside several darker fruits and a lush, round, immensely pleasing texture.

2022 Turley “Pesenti Vineyard” Zinfandel, Paso Robles

This certified organic estate-owned vineyard was planted in the 1920s on primarily limestone soil. Though the vines are head-trained and dry-farmed, the soil plays the most important role in distinguishing this vineyard on the west side of Paso Robles. The wines have a brightness, with chalk and floral characteristic aromas unique to the site, and to Zinfandel in general.

Certified organic vines planted in the 1920s in white mineral-rich rocky soils. An outright exuberant nose of ripe red raspberry, fruit leather, and high-toned spice. Bright and energetic on the palate with pure, sweet red fruits and holiday spices. A long, almost old-world Pinot note on the finish, the Pesenti is always a standout in the spring lineup.

2022 Turley “Estate” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

This vineyard is special to all of us here at the winery; right in our backyard, it’s what we see every day at work (and from the family home!). We have slowly and steadily planted additional head-trained dry-farmed Zinfandel vines to complement the original planting from the mid-1990s, and the entire property is certified organic. Taking a page from our beloved old vine vineyards, we’ve also planted several of the varieties most commonly interplanted in old Zinfandel vineyards, including Carignane, Trousseau, and Cinsault.

Certified organic, head-trained, dry-farmed field blend of vines planted at ourwinery in the heart of Napa Valley. Red & black fruits, garrigue, and distinctive black pepper nose. Broad and deep on the palate, with further notes of Provencal herbs and earth; though most definitely a classic Napa wine, it has an almost Southern French sensibility.

2022 Turley “dragon VIneyard” Zinfandel, Howell Mountain

Dragon Vineyard is an estate-farmed, certified organic vineyard. Planted at 2400 feet at one of the highest points on Howell Mountain, the vineyard sits well above the fog line and faces east, first to receive the soft morning sun. These important features, along with the rocky, red volcanic soil, make for a unique, full-bodied, powerful Zinfandel. This is often Larry’s favorite since it goes with what he most likes to cook: bold, flavorful, spice-laden meats laid over an open fire. There’s a reason Howell Mountain was the first designated sub-AVA in Napa Valley: the wines from this hallowed ridge are the most distinctive in the entire region.

Certified organic and planted at 2400’ above Napa Valley, these wines are among the most distinctive in the entire region. Powerful, deep, profound yet refined; much like its namesake, the Dragon is an elegant beast. Dark fruits, robust black pepper, savory orgeat, and overall superb. This is a wine with a lot of personality that you will want to discover with time.

2022 Turley “cedarman” Zinfandel, Howell Mountain

Cedarman is a proprietary blend of certified organic fruit from some of the highest elevation plantings on Howell Mountain. Primarily Zinfandel, we use a small amount of Petite Syrah as well, resulting in a truly powerful, dense and wild wine, long on flavor.

A proprietary assemblage of fruit from the Dragon and Rattlesnake Ridge vineyards on Howell Mountain, all certified organic. Brambly black fruits, roasted meats, and pepper. Dense and intense on the palate, with further graphite and tobacco.  There’s no denying this is a mountain wine!

2022 Turley “Buck Cobb Vineyard” Zinfandel, Amador County

Planted at 1500 feet on the volcanic, granitic hillside near our property in Amador, the Cobb Vineyard Zinfandel is an homage to “Buck” Cobb from whom we purchased the vineyard and the Karly property in Amador. We even added a little bi-plane symbol to the label to commemorate Buck’s time as an aerobatic pilot! The rocky conditions and more extreme weather (including snow) in this dry-farmed vineyard make for a hearty, robust Zinfandel.

Organically farmed head-trained vines planted at 1500’ in the granite and quartz soils of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.  Primarily savory and red-fruited, with characteristics of black pepper, dried meats and fine-grained tannin texture. This would be an excellent pairing with wood-fired pizza!

2022 Turley “Del barba” Zinfandel, contra costa

Contra Costa is a delta where the San Joaquin and Sacramento rivers meet, and these head-trained vines are planted in deep dehli blow sand, made up of decomposed granite coming down from the Sierra Mountains. The resulting wine embodies the best the delta has to offer: silken textures, ultra fine tannin, and dark saline fruits. 

Hailing from head-trained vines planted in the deep dehli blow sands of Contra Costa. Engaging on the nose, with lifted aromas of dusty ripe red fruits, gingerbread spices, pomegranate, overall bright and lively. A rapturous wine with an utterly vibrant texture on the palate. Just downright delicious.

2022 Turley “Estate” Petite Syrah, Napa Valley

Planted adjacent to the Estate Zinfandel, this Petite is also certified organic. The Wappo Indians used to roam throughout the region, and obsidian arrowheads are commonplace in the rocky volcanic soils. The wine is a classic Napa Valley Petite Syrah: dark and brooding on the nose, bright and vibrant on the palate.

Certified organic mixed planting that includes trellised and head-trained, dry-farmed heritage vines.  No see-through wines here! Dark, brooding, and seriously mature, the Estate Petite has really come into its own. Blackberry preserves alongside bouquet garni, bay leaf, savory roast meat and mushrooms. Dry tannins and plenty of stuffing on the palate. This would be an excellent pairing with venison or roast lamb.

2022 Turley “Kirschenmann Vineyard” Zinfandel, Lodi

The Kirschenmann is close to our hearts as our winemaker, Tegan Passalacqua, owns and farms this vineyard. The ungrafted vines were planted in 1915 in the silica-rich sandy soils of the east side of the Mokelumne River AVA. Thanks to the river’s cool waters and delta breezes, these head-trained, dry-farmed vines are constantly protected from the heat. In the grand tradition of old-vine field blends, the vineyard has small amounts of Mondeuse, Cinsault, and Carignane.

Organically farmed, own-rooted, head-trained and dry-farmed vines planted in 1915 in the silica-rich sandy soils of the east side of the Mokelumne River AVA. A beguiling nose that pulls you in, this wine is the essence of old vine Zinfandel. A layered wine of mouthwatering red fruits, roasted meats, sandalwood, and dust.  

2022 Turley “casa nuestra” red wine, Napa Valley

Connoisseurs of Napa Valley field blends will likely recognize the vineyard, made primarily under the eponymous label and farmed organically since 1979. For the formerly uninitiated, Casa Nuestra is nearly adjacent to the Turley Estate property in Napa Valley, just across the nearby Napa River. The vineyard is planted to a Mediterranean mix of Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, Alicante, Carignane, Napa Gamay, Négrette, Mourvèdre, Refosco, and even Chenin Blanc.

Old vine, organically farmed Napa field blend including Zin, Petite Syrah, Carignane, Mourvedre, Alicante, & Chenin Blanc. Significantly darker than the other wines owing to the diversity of the site. Dark florals, plum, and compote alongside spiced meat marinade. Well-structured with a palate that seems to combine the Estate Zinfandel & Petite Syrah, this versatile wine will reward those who give it some time.

2022 Turley “Pesenti Vineyard” Petite Syrah, Paso Robles

This estate-owned and certified organic vineyard was planted by the Turley team using cuttings from the legendary Hayne vineyard. Head-trained, dry-farmed and planted in limestone, the wines are dark, smooth, dense and classic Petite Syrah.  As the vines age the wines are increasingly expressive of the Pesenti Vineyard with minerality, savory spices and high tone pepper.

Certified organic, dry-farmed estate vines descended from Hayne budwood. Lovely and dark purple in color, the essence of Petite Syrah grapes grown in white soils. Ripe purple fruits, cocoa, and ink, with classic Petite Syrah structure.

2022 Turley “Heminway Vineyard” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

Located on the top of the Vaca Mountains in northeastern Napa Valley, this vineyard sits at 1700 feet in between the southern end of Howell Mountain and just north of Pritchard Hill. The vines benefit from the moderating climate above Lake Hennessey. The wines are classic Napa Valley mountain fruit with great tannin. Jay Heminway planted the vineyard with the help of his daughter’s then-Montessori teacher Alice Waters, now known as the pioneering chef of farm-to-table cuisine at Chez Panisse.

At the top of the Vaca Mountains in Napa, this organic vineyard sits at 1700’ between Howell Mountain and Pritchard Hill.

2022 Turley “WHITNEY TENNESSEE” Zinfandel, ALEXANDER Valley

This small, estate-owned, pre-Prohibition vineyard in Sonoma County was purchased by the winery in 2009, and we’ve since converted all to organic farming. Planted on loam and various gravel soils, the Whitney Tennessee vineyard—named for one of Larry’s four daughters—is a mixed planting as well, with small amounts of Petite Syrah and Carignane vines sprinkled throughout.

Organically farmed pre-Prohibition vines planted head-trained and dry-farmed in the loam & gravel of Sonoma County. Garrigue, red and dark fruits, herbs de Provence and dried flowers. Some savory sweetness with a spiced finish on makes this heady wine easy to enjoy.

2022 Turley “Vineyard 101” Zinfandel, Alexander Valley

Located in Sonoma, this pre-Prohibition vineyard is estate-owned and certified organic. At only 2½ acres, it is the smallest site we make into a vineyard designate, which is a shame, since the wines are consistently a staff favorite. The wines are aromatic and light, with lots of fruit and great acidity. Vineyard 101 was the first old-vine vineyard Larry purchased, and it is the longest-running estate bottling we’ve ever made.

Tiny certified organic vineyard planted pre-Prohibition in Sonoma. Bright red fruits, baking spices, garrigue and perfume. Appealingly complex and layered on the palate, with further brambly fruits and excellent depth.

2022 Turley “Bedrock Vineyard” Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley

Hailing from 1888 and owned by Joel Peterson (founder of Ravenswood) and his son Morgan Twain-Peterson of Bedrock Wine Co., the Bedrock Vineyard is truly an iconic site. Right in the heart of Sonoma Valley, these ancient vines are planted amidst volcanic rocks and Los Robles cobbly loam soil that has sloughed down from Monte Rosso. This is a layered, complex wine, owing perhaps to the small amounts of Petite Syrah and Alicante Bouschet that are also found in our organically-farmed block of Bedrock.

Organically farmed, head-trained vines dating back to 1888 in Sonoma. An attractive nose of raspberry, savory roast meats, umami, and dark soil. The light tannins are pleasantly palate-coating, well-balanced and grounded.

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2021 Vintage Winter Release

Old Vines, Young Love

                                    

Tasting Notes

2021 vintage — winter release

2021 Turley “estate” cabernet sauvignon, Napa Valley

Organically-farmed, single-vineyard estate Napa Cabernet Sauvignon—not a statement that can be made by many! Planted in 1989 on the volcanic and alluvial soils found in northern Napa Valley, this vineyard forms the eastern border of the Turley estate and is framed by ancient majestic oak trees and a 150-year-old olive grove.

Certified organic, estate-owned and single-vineyard fruit from our home in the heart of Napa Valley. This wine is an instant classic, over-delivering on dark currant and cassis, savory notes of garrigue, ink, and freshly roasted coffee on the nose. Complex, structured, and quite serious on the palate, with a surge of juicy, ripe red raspberry fruit providing exquisite balance. Decant and ready to drink now at 60°-65°F.

2021 Turley “dragon Vineyard” cabernet sauvignon, howell mountain

When we first planted the Dragon Vineyard, the fact that Howell Mountain is hallowed ground for Cabernet Sauvignon did not escape us. Thus, though we filled the vast majority of the site with Zinfandel, we also planted a small parcel with Cabernet Sauvignon. And boy, are we glad we did.

Nestled atop Howell Mountain at 2200 feet, this certified organic vineyard overlooks the valley below. Signature Howell Mountain, with its distinctive nose of dark brambly fruits, high-toned white pepper, stone, and copious spices. Very structured and defined on the palate, with healthy high-elevation tannin. An intense and elegant wine. Decant several hours ahead of time and serve at 60°-65°F, or will age nicely.

2021 Turley “montecillo vineyard” cabernet sauvignon, sonoma valley

Hailing from one of the most historic and oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in Sonoma, Montecillo is truly a paragon site. Located in the sub-AVA of Moon Mountain along the western side of the Mayacamas, its high elevation, combined with dry-farming and the rocky, unforgiving soils, makes for one of the most authentic, unique, and all-around best vineyard sites in the US.

Perched at 1800 feet up Moon Mountain on the Sonoma side of the Mayacamas is this utter jewel of an old-vine, dry-farmed Cabernet vineyard. Compellingly lifted aromatics of black currant, brambly blackberry, fennel and a hint of anise. Elegant, well-integrated velvety tannins and more dark fruits on the palate. Deeply refined and absolutely delicious. Open and expressive, ready to drink now at 60°-65°F.

2021 Turley “rinaldi Vineyard” Zinfandel, amador county

Known to many historically as the Eschen vineyard, Rinaldi is one of the most significant ancient vineyards in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Though the bulk of our block dates from 1910, there are even still a few remaining vines from the original planting in the 1860s! Up high at 2000 feet of elevation in the Fiddletown AVA, the wine has plenty of tannin and is generally more blue-fruited than what you might find in nearby Shenandoah Valley.

Century-old vines located 2000 ft up in granite soils of the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Layered and vivacious on the nose, with plum, blueberry, crushed rocks, and roasted game. Palate shows further blue and red fruits alongside the fine, satiating texture. Very drinkable on its own now at 55°-60°F, or can be decanted and/or laid down.

2021 Turley “dupratt Vineyard” Zinfandel, mendocino county

Planted in 1919 at 1500 feet up on Mendocino Ridge, this vineyard is surrounded by giant Redwood trees, forming a little island in the sky. Indeed, the site is so remote that the vines still survive on their own original roots as Phylloxera has never made its way up there. Located above the town of Philo and only 5 miles from the Pacific Ocean, it is the northernmost, coolest site from which we’ve ever made wine. Though we’ve worked with Mendocino fruit for many years, DuPratt is the only Mendocino County bottling from Turley.

Secluded, old vine Mendocino mountain fruit, planted in 1919 at 1500 ft. Dark and brooding nose of ripe boysenberry, blackberry, Indian ink, pencil lead, and wild foliage. Intense and savory on the palate, with plenty of mountain tannins and a long, lovely finish. A very special wine that will reward patience; lay it down or decant and serve now at 55°-60°F.

2021 Turley “monte rosso Vineyard” Zinfandel, sonoma valley

Located along the Sonoma side of the Mayacamas Mountains is the historic Monte Rosso vineyard. Called “red mountain” for its iron-rich volcanic soils, our block of Monte Rosso’s sloping hills was planted in 1893. Ranging in elevation from 700 to 1300 feet, these vines sit primarily above the fog line, with the city of San Francisco and the San Pablo Bay visible on a clear day. This prestigious vineyard is shared by many colleagues in the Zinfandel and larger wine world, and is widely considered one of the most notable sites both for the age of the vines as well as the superiority of the wines they produce.

Legendary late 1800s vineyard on Moon Mtn., along the southeastern edge of the Mayacamas. A deeply profound, brooding, almost Cabernet-like nose of dark fruits, dried baking spices, cassis, and graphite. Texture is reminiscent of other great wines of the world, and includes blackberry, plum, and smooth, marble-like mountain tannin that is exceptionally well-integrated. Decant and drink now at 55°-60°F or lay it down for years to come.

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2021 Vintage Fall Release

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2021 Vintage Fall Release

Old Vines, Young Love

                                    

Tasting Notes

2021 vintage — fall release

A note on our winemaking:

All of our vineyards are either certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers or somewhere in the process, and we use all natural yeasts in the fermentations. The below single vineyard designate wines are aged in 80% used oak barriques, of which 80% are French (the rest American) and bottled after 15-18 months in barrel.

2021 Turley “Brandlin Ranch” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

Located atop Mount Veeder, on the eastern and Napa side of the Mayacamas Mountains, this historic site was first settled in the 1870s by the Brandlin family, who ran the local stagecoach. They first planted grapevines in 1926, and we are honored to be working with the Zinfandel from that original planting. Sitting between 900-1250 feet in decomposed granite soils, slate, and schist, these dry-farmed vines see a long growing season, low yields, and high concentration. One sip and it’s easy to see why this is the most legendary vineyard on Mount Veeder.

Historic 1926 Zinfandel vineyard atop Mt Veeder, along the steep southern edge of the Mayacamas in Napa. Ardent aromas of wildflowers, berries, and savory, umami-rich meats. Reminiscent of an alpine strawberry meadow. Deeply pleasurable on the palate, with a burst of ripe red fruits deftly delivered by fresh acidity. Well-structured and downright delicious. Drinking great now at 55°-60°F.

2021 Turley “Hayne Vineyard” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

The Hayne Vineyard is one of our most exceptional sites. Located in an idyllic warm yet breezy spot on the west side of St. Helena, we are honored to have worked with this vineyard and the Hayne family for over twenty-six years. The property has been in the same family since 1876, and the head-trained, dry-farmed Zinfandel vines, planted in 1902 and 1903, produce wines of power and elegance. Year after year, this wine serves as the archetype for Zinfandel and Napa Valley.

A Napa Valley “grand cru,” planted 1902-03. Refined rose petal, red and black fruits, and braised meats on the nose; like a beautifully set table complete with boeuf bourguignon and a bouquet of roses. Tegan likes to call this wine a “thoroughbred,” and it’s easy to see why; strong, beautiful, elegant, and downright lovely. Will age well, decant or drink now at 55°-60°F.

2021 Turley “Judge Bell” Zinfandel, Amador County

As our Amador winery is located on Bell Road, we named this wine for the eponymous (and notorious) Judge Bell, who presided over the nearby town of Plymouth during its Gold Rush heyday. Harking from own-rooted vines planted in 1907, the wine shows quintessential Amador granitic tannins and briary fruits.

Ungrafted vines planted 1907 in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The nose is deeply appealing, leading with spiced red fruits and wild rosebushes. The texture is equally enticing, well balanced between ripe fruit and fine-grained granitic tannin. Ready to drink now or lay it down for a spell at 55°-60°F.

2021 Turley “Fredericks Vineyard” Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley

Hailing from 1937, these certified organic vines are some of the most unique we’ve ever seen. Just a mile and a half from the Napa border on the Sonoma side of the Mayacamas, the vines are planted along steep, contoured terraces. Finding old vineyards is rare enough, but ancient hillside head-trained vines located 900 feet up? Downright extraordinary.

Certified organic, planted 1937 at about 1000 ft up Moon Mountain. Fragrant nose of plum, lavender, black cherry, graphite, anise, herbs, and roasted coffee. A liberal dose of mountain tannins adds additional gravitas. The overall effect is wondrous, and the powerful finish left us awestruck. Don’t miss this wine in 2021. Lay it down or decant and serve at 55°-60°F.

2021 Turley “Ueberroth Vineyard” Zinfandel, Paso Robles

Planted in 1885, Ueberroth is the oldest of our Zinfandel vineyards. Located closer to the sea than any other site we work with, you can smell the salt air from the top of the vineyard hill. These ungrafted, head-trained vines are planted on very steep limestone slopes. The high pH of the soil makes for a very high-acid wine, elevating the powerful ripe fruit flavors from this historic certified organic vineyard.

Certified organic, ungrafted vines over 130 years old; the “grand cru” site of Paso Robles. Dark brambly fruits abound in this classically elegant yet powerful Paso Zin, along with a hint of holiday spices and dried orange peel. A generous surge of acidity on the palate offers the characteristic lift we love in this wine, and pairs perfectly with the dense fruit flavors. Ready to drink now at 55°-60°F or will age.

2021 Turley “RATTLESNAKE RIDGE Vineyard” Zinfandel, HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Rattlesnake Ridge is a certified organic, estate-owned vineyard. Located at the top of Howell Mountain at about 2600 feet, the vines see more sun here than they would on the valley floor; however, it is much colder due to the elevation, and can even snow in the winter. All combined, these factors make for a truly unique wine: bold flavors, and a tannin and acid backbone that can only come from Howell Mountain.

Certified organic estate vines planted at 2400 ft on a windswept ridge overlooking Napa Valley. Classic Rattlesnake aromas of blackberry, chaparral, violets, sage, bacon, and savory pie crust fresh from the oven; reminiscent of Côte Rôtie. Traditional Howell Mountain tannins are well tamed by the copious flavors and luscious texture. Utterly delicious now at 55°-60°F, but could also be decanted or laid down.

2021 Turley “Dogtown Vineyard” Zinfandel, Lodi

Planted in 1944, the Dogtown Vineyard is organically farmed by Turley Wine Cellars. This head-trained, own-rooted vineyard is within the Clements Hills AVA, which has more varied topography than the rest of Lodi; thus, while most vineyards in the region were furrow irrigated, the rolling hills of iron-rich clay and volcanic soil in Dogtown have been dry-farmed from the start. The vineyard has some of the most consistently low yields and best natural acidity of any other we’ve farmed.

The pride of Lodi, these organically farmed ungrafted vines were planted in 1944. Vibrant aromas soar from the glass, including red fruits, matcha, autumnal spices, and gingerbread. We could smell this wine all day! Palate is equally pleasurable, with a bit of bitter chocolate, stone fruits, and smooth, black tea-like tannin. Drinking well now at 55°-60°F and will age nicely.

2021 Turley “Library Vineyard” Petite Syrah, Napa Valley

The Library Vineyard is one of the most unique vineyards in California. Planted between 1880 and 1920 directly behind the St. Helena Public Library, the vineyard is very varietally diverse. Primarily Petite Syrah vines mix with a myriad of others, including; Peloursin, Cinsault, Syrah, Mission, Alicante Bouschet, Grand Noir, Carignan, Grenache and Zinfandel. There are also several white grapes such as Muscat Alexandria, Muscadelle, Burger, and Green Hungarian. We pick them all together to make a wine truly expressive of the vineyard. 

A true gem, this incredibly varietally diverse vineyard was planted 1880-1920. Aromas range from purple fruits, white muscat, lychee, and orange blossom to iron-rich savory roast rib eye. Signature Napa Valley on the palate, mouthwatering with polished, velvety tannin. Give it a generous decant and serve at 60°-65°F or lay it down.

2021 Turley “Zampatti Vineyard” Zinfandel, Sonoma County

Located in Sonoma County, Zampatti is nearly hidden in downtown Santa Rosa. Planted in 1915 on 2.5 acres, the vineyard is farmed organically by Alida Morzenti, granddaughter of the Zampattis. The Zinfandel vines are interspersed with little-known white grapes Palomino and Golden Chasselas, and planted on a cool sloping site with large rocks scattered throughout the warm Franciscan soils. The wines are balanced, aromatic, bright and beautiful. 

A miniscule jewel of an organic vineyard, planted 1915. Ripe cranberry, blood orange zest, chalk, and fennel on the nose. Bright and vivid on the palate, with plum and further red and citrus fruits. Utterly ethereal in texture, you can’t help but salivate throughout and well after you’ve savored this wine. Drinks very well now at 55°-60°F or can age.

2021 Turley “DUSI Vineyard” Zinfandel, PASO ROBLES

The Dusi vineyard was planted by Dante Dusi in 1945, and is farmed by his family to this day. The vines are head-trained and dry-farmed, planted in soil that is primarily alluvial with some rather large rocks. Like our other Paso vineyards, Dusi is located in the Templeton Gap AVA, the cooler climate area on the west side of the region.

Planted 1945 and still farmed by the Dusi family to this day, this wine is one of the most plush and hedonistic we make at Turley. Particularly pretty in ‘21, with black plum, crème de cassis, and blackberry. Luscious, sappy, mouthwatering and absurdly easy to drink. Velvety in texture with a nice piquant white spice on the long finish. Ready to drink now at 55°-60°F.

2021 Turley “Hayne Vineyard” Petite Syrah, Napa Valley

Otty Hayne planted the Hayne Petite Syrah in 1953 while he was home from college visiting his grandfather. All head-trained, dry-farmed and organic, this Petite Syrah vineyard is one of the most exceptional sites in California. The wine is powerful and inky in its youth, and becomes more elegant and refined with age. Likely to outlive us all.

One of the finest wines we make, this organic, old-vine Petite Syrah has serious pedigree. Profound on the nose, with pungent plum, dark brambly fruits, India ink, and pan grillé, reminiscent of young Pauillac. The palate has luscious blackberry, white pepper, and a hint of orange zest alongside a savory layer of herbs, gravel, and anise. Decanting will coax further pleasure if you drink the wine now, or it can age indefinitely. Serve at 60°-65°F.

2021 Turley “RATTLESNAKE RIDGE Vineyard” PETITE SYRAH, HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Above St. Helena on the north-eastern ridge of Napa Valley, the Petite Syrah from the certified organic Rattlesnake Ridge Vineyard is another fantastic expression of Howell Mountain. Dark, powerful, inky, funky; this high-elevation, sun-drenched yet cool and windy site brings out the best characteristics of Petite Syrah.

Certified organic vines planted at 2400 ft above Napa Valley. A full meal of a wine, with purple fruits, bacon fat, savory herbs, grilled bread, lavender oil, graphite, and crème de cassis. Grippy tannins and a mouth-coating texture balanced by the plentiful fruits and a long finish. Decant and drink now at 60°-65°F or will benefit further from laying down.

2021 Turley “Old Vines” Zinfandel, California

Old Vines is composed of a variety of venerable sites from California that are either too small to be made into a vineyard designate wine or are “new” to the Turley family (and way of farming). Vines are anywhere from 50 to 130 years old, and a true representation of California old vine Zinfandel, hailing from vineyards in Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Contra Costa, Amador and Paso Robles. There is no better way to gauge the classic character of old vine Zinfandel in California than through this wine.

Hailing from over 20 ancient vineyards across California, this wine has inherent depth, complexity, and grace thanks to the old vine sources. The ’21 is extremely well composed; dark fruits like plum and blueberry alongside black tea and savory herbs. A serious and brooding wine that is satisfyingly nimble on the palate. Ready to drink now at 55°-60°F.

2021 Turley “The White Coat” White Wine, California

The White Coat (named for Larry’s past career as an Emergency Room physician) is composed of white Rhône grapes from three of our Estate vineyards across California. The rich, textured Roussanne from Rattlesnake Ridge on Howell Mountain in Napa is moderated by acidity and structure provided by the Grenache Blanc grown in the calcareous soils of the Pesenti Vineyard in Paso Robles. Finally, the blend is rounded out with a touch of refreshing, mineral Vermentino (also known as Rolle) from the granitic and quartz-laden Cobb Vineyard in Amador. The result is an exceptional, dynamic white wine that is truly California.

Our signature white blend of Grenache Blanc, Vermentino, and Roussanne, all white grapes hailing from the Rhône Valley. Fantastic nose of fragrant white flowers, chamomile, ripe apricot, beeswax, and sun-warmed white stone. Medium-bodied with further honeyed stone fruits and a tinge of butterscotch. Great with rich shellfish or lemon-y pasta, and drinking well now at 40°-50°F.

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2021 Vintage Spring Release

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2021 Vintage Spring Release

Newsletter

2021 vintage — spring release

Horizontal lineup of our 2021 vintage Spring Release wines atop a buffet and backed by a rich colored tapestry.

Dear Friends, 

            Greetings from soggy CA, where Mother Nature decided she’d had enough of this dry January nonsense and said “Here, hold my beer.” Indeed, it’s been deliciously wet ‘round these parts, replete with rain, snow, soups, baths, and plenty of soul-warming, toe-curling Turley wine. We’re beyond relieved to refill our parched reservoirs, and even more excited to restock your reserves with the first release of the phenomenal 2021 vintage Turley wines! 

     Indeed, 2021 was an ideal and—dare we say it—“normal” vintage, a welcome reprieve from the many challenges of the year previous. Though still drought-ridden and very low-yielding, the vines were healthy and made wines of power, promise, and finesse. As such, we’re able to wish a whole-hearted welcome back to our beloved Howell Mountain wines on this release, Dragon and Cedarman. These certified organic vines produce some of the most unique and treasured wines we make in Napa Valley, and after being forced to forfeit an entire vintage in 2020, we are ecstatic to have them once again. Keep an eye out for the return of the Rattlesnake wines on the fall release as well.      

     We’d also like to extend a warm welcome to the newest wine in the Turley lineup, Del Barba Vineyard. This Zinfandel hails from the deep dehli blow sands of Contra Costa County, and after a decade of work, is ready to “graduate” to its own single-vineyard bottling. After twenty years, we’ve retired Duarte, the long-time regional blend of fruit from Contra Costa, to focus on what we do best: single-vineyard wines. And yes, that’s plural…there will be another soon to come!

     Lastly, for the first time in 30 years, we have come to the difficult decision to raise prices. Though long overdue thanks to the precipitously rising costs of farming, insurance, production supplies and shipping, as well as environmental challenges like wildfires and drought, this was nevertheless not a decision we came to lightly. Unlike many of our peers in the wine business, we opted to forgo a universal increase, and instead took a thorough and painstaking look at each wine individually. As a result, not all prices were raised, and the wines that did go up were increased only by the exact amount they needed to be to cover costs. Thus, overall the average price went up by only $2 a bottle. After all, a large part of being a sustainable business means we need to be able to stay in business, and this was a necessary measure to ensure we can continue to work with these ancient, historic vines and make these precious wines for years to come. We are eternally grateful to you for your understanding in this regard, and confident you’ll enjoy the fruits of our labor.

     Cheers to 2023, Turley’s 30th year, and cheers to you for making that possible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Old Vines Young Love,

Christina Turley

Turley Wine Cellars

 

                                    

Tasting Notes

2021 vintage — spring release

A note on our winemaking:

All of our vineyards are either certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers or somewhere in the process, and we use all natural yeasts in the fermentations. The below single vineyard designate wines are aged in 80% used oak barriques, of which 80% are French (the rest American) and bottled after 15-18 months in barrel.

2021 Turley “Juvenile” Zinfandel, California

Though the vast majority of our wines are single vineyard designates, Juvenile is actually composed of a variety of young vines that have been replanted in several of our old vine sites.We tag the younger vines then pick them separately and make a distinct wine. Juvenile vines range in age from about 6-25 years, and we pull from a selection of our best vineyards across California.

Fragrant, lifted aromas of ripe dark fruits like black raspberry and blood orange on the nose. Superb balance between acidity, tannin, and spice, with a succulent, profoundly satisfying texture.

2021 Turley “Pesenti Vineyard” Zinfandel, Paso Robles

This certified organic estate-owned vineyard was planted in the 1920s on primarily limestone soil. Though the vines are head-trained and dry-farmed, the soil plays the most important role in distinguishing this vineyard on the west side of Paso Robles. The wines have a brightness, with chalk and floral characteristic aromas unique to the site, and to Zinfandel in general.

Deeply perfumed and enthralling nose of ripe red fruits, high-toned spices, orange zest, and an almost minty crushed chalk. Palate is smooth, lush, energetic, and pure, with a smack of well-toned acidity, satiating structure, and a long, precise finish.

2021 Turley “Estate” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

This vineyard is special to all of us here at the winery; right in our backyard, it’s what we see every day at work (and from the family home!). We have slowly and steadily planted additional head-trained dry-farmed Zinfandel vines to complement the original planting from the mid-1990s, and the entire property is certified organic. Taking a page from our beloved old vine vineyards, we’ve also planted several of the varieties most commonly interplanted in old Zinfandel vineyards, including Carignane, Trousseau, and Cinsault.

Certified organic, head-trained, dry-farmed field blend of vines planted at our winery in the heart of Napa Valley. Fragrant and savory, with notes of garrigue, dark chocolate, salted plum, meat marinade, and Provençal herbs. The texture on the palate evokes Cabernet or even Petite Syrah in structure and timbre, further demonstrating the multifaceted appeal of this sonorous wine.

2021 Turley “dragon VIneyard” Zinfandel, Howell Mountain

Dragon Vineyard is an estate-farmed, certified organic vineyard. Planted at 2400 feet at one of the highest points on Howell Mountain, the vineyard sits well above the fog line and faces east, first to receive the soft morning sun. These important features, along with the rocky, red volcanic soil, make for a unique, full-bodied, powerful Zinfandel. This is often Larry’s favorite since it goes with what he most likes to cook: bold, flavorful, spice-laden meats laid over an open fire. There’s a reason Howell Mountain was the first designated sub-AVA in Napa Valley: the wines from this hallowed ridge are the most distinctive in the entire region.

Certified organic and planted at 2400’ above Napa Valley, these wines are among the most distinctive in the entire region. Back with renewed verve, Dragon is brimming with savory white pepper, lavender, blackberry, cassis, dried herbs and anise. Signature Howell Mountain tannin and texture provide a cohesive balance in this elegant behemoth..

2021 Turley “cedarman” Zinfandel, Howell Mountain

Cedarman is a proprietary blend of certified organic fruit from some of the highest elevation plantings on Howell Mountain. Primarily Zinfandel, we use a small amount of Petite Syrah as well, resulting in a truly powerful, dense and wild wine, long on flavor.

Another triumphant return, this wine is a proprietary assemblage of fruit from the Dragon and Rattlesnake Ridge vineyards, all certified organic. Dark fruits, black pepper, meat marinade, and a smattering of blackberry and dried purple flowers. Densely flavorful and decidedly Howell Mountain in texture.

2021 Turley “Buck Cobb Vineyard” Zinfandel, Amador County

Planted at 1500 feet on the volcanic, granitic hillside near our property in Amador, the Cobb Vineyard Zinfandel is an homage to “Buck” Cobb from whom we purchased the vineyard and the Karly property in Amador. We even added a little bi-plane symbol to the label to commemorate Buck’s time as an aerobatic pilot! The rocky conditions and more extreme weather (including snow) in this dry-farmed vineyard make for a hearty, robust Zinfandel.

Organically farmed head-trained vines planted at 1500’ in the Sierra Nevada Foothills in granite & quartz.  Aromas of red florals and fruits, orange zest, nutmeg, and petrichor, with a red pepper kick to the spicy finish. Very well integrated palate with characteristic yet resolved mountain tannins, reminiscent of a nuanced young Barbaresco.

2021 Turley “Del barba” Zinfandel, contra costa

New in 2021! After working with the fruit for over a decade, we are proud to present the first single-vineyard bottling for Turley from the Del Barba Vineyard. Contra Costa is a delta where the San Joaquin and Sacramento rivers meet, and these head-trained vines are planted in deep dehli blow sand, made up of decomposed granite coming down from the Sierra Mountains. The resulting wine embodies the best the delta has to offer: silken textures, ultra fine tannin, and dark saline fruits. 

Hailing from head-trained vines planted in the deep dehli blow sands of Contra Costa. Vibrant and dazzling on the nose, with plum, blood orange, lively spice, and mouthwatering smoked meats. The texture is a knockout: super smooth, silky and supple, with excellent acidity. Utterly enthralling, and a wine we want to revisit repeatedly.

2021 Turley “Estate” Petite Syrah, Napa Valley

Planted adjacent to the Estate Zinfandel, this Petite is also certified organic. The Wappo Indians used to roam throughout the region, and obsidian arrowheads are commonplace in the rocky volcanic soils. The wine is a classic Napa Valley Petite Syrah: dark and brooding on the nose, bright and vibrant on the palate.

Certified organic mixed planting that includes trellised and head-trained, dry-farmed heritage vines. Dark blue and purple fruits, savory spiced game, and earth, like a walk through a rain-wet northern forest. Strikingly silky on the palate, with a fresh, vivacious texture that offsets the brooding depth of this exceptional wine.

2021 Turley “Deaver Ranch” Zinfandel, Amador County

Hailing from several head-trained vineyards dating back to the 1920s, these vines are planted at around 1500’ in the granite and quartz-rich soils of the Shenandoah Valley AVA. Ken Deaver, who farms each of these sites, can trace his family’s history in the Foothills back to the mid-19th century. The family planted their first grapevines in 1854, selling their harvest primarily to fellow homesteaders and amateur winemakers. Now, over 150 years later, Turley is proud to participate in this long-standing family farming tradition.

Deaver Ranch hails from several head-trained vineyards dating back to the 1920s across the Shenandoah Valley AVA. With a notable pure red color, the Deaver is a standout visually as well as aromatically. Sumptuous red fruits and abundant baking spices abound on the nose; lush yet fresh on the palate with signature Amador tannin.

2021 Turley “Kirschenmann Vineyard” Zinfandel, Lodi

The Kirschenmann is close to our hearts as our winemaker, Tegan Passalacqua, owns and farms this vineyard. The ungrafted vines were planted in 1915 in the silica-rich sandy soils of the east side of the Mokelumne River AVA. Thanks to the river’s cool waters and delta breezes, these head-trained, dry-farmed vines are constantly protected from the heat. In the grand tradition of old-vine field blends, the vineyard has small amounts of Mondeuse, Cinsault, and Carignane.

Organically farmed, own-rooted, head-trained and dry-farmed vines planted in 1915 in the silica-rich sandy soils of the east side of the Mokelumne River AVA. Marking the 10th vintage of this wine, bright ripe red fruits, raspberry preserves, and white pepper burst forth from the glass. Precise on the palate like a perfectly seasoned piece of meat, with more red berries and a sumptuously complex texture.

2021 Turley “casa nuestra” red wine, Napa Valley

Connoisseurs of Napa Valley field blends will likely recognize the vineyard, made primarily under the eponymous label and farmed organically since 1979. For the formerly uninitiated, Casa Nuestra is nearly adjacent to the Turley Estate property in Napa Valley, just across the nearby Napa River. The vineyard is planted to a Mediterranean mix of Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, Alicante, Carignane, Napa Gamay, Négrette, Mourvèdre, Refosco, and even Chenin Blanc.

Old vine, organically farmed Napa field blend including Zin, Petite Syrah, Carignane, Mourvedre, Alicante, & Chenin Blanc. A wildly redolent wine with black raspberry, white pepper, ginger, and earthy notes of truffles and beets. The palate is intricately layered, with appealing notes of orange zest and leather on the finish. A truly enticing wine from the jump.

2021 Turley “Steacy Ranch” Zinfandel, lodi

Steacy Ranch was one of the first vineyards planted on St. George rootstock in Lodi, which has since become the gold standard for Zinfandel in California. Hailing from 1907, the Zinfandel vines in this sandy-soiled vineyard are interspersed with Grenache, Carignane, and Mission varieties as well, all common bedfellows in these classic old California vineyards.

Planted 1907 in the sandy loam soils on the east side of Lodi, these ancient Zinfandel vines are interspersed with Grenache, Carignane, and Mission as well. Savory and earthy on the nose, with elements of dark fruits, sandalwood, red apple skin, and braised rhubarb. With smooth, super fine grained tannins and a long, blue-fruited finish, this would be an excellent pairing with duck!

2021 Turley “Pesenti Vineyard” Petite Syrah, Paso Robles

This estate-owned and certified organic vineyard was planted by the Turley team using cuttings from the legendary Hayne vineyard. Head-trained, dry-farmed and planted in limestone, the wines are dark, smooth, dense and classic Petite Syrah.  As the vines age the wines are increasingly expressive of the Pesenti Vineyard with minerality, savory spices and high tone pepper.

Certified organic, dry-farmed estate vines descended from Hayne budwood. Captivatingly expressive from start to finish with blackberry preserves, black cherry, plum, graphite, and luscious, effortlessly smooth tannin. Unlike most Petites, this wine is rewardingly ready to drink now.

2021 Turley “Heminway Vineyard” Zinfandel, Napa Valley

Located on the top of the Vaca Mountains in northeastern Napa Valley, this vineyard sits at 1700 feet in between the southern end of Howell Mountain and just north of Pritchard Hill. The vines benefit from the moderating climate above Lake Hennessey. The wines are classic Napa Valley mountain fruit with great tannin. Jay Heminway planted the vineyard with the help of his daughter’s then-Montessori teacher Alice Waters, now known as the pioneering chef of farm-to-table cuisine at Chez Panisse.

At the top of the Vaca Mountains in Napa, this organic vineyard sits at 1700’ between Howell Mountain and Pritchard Hill. A truly phenomenal iteration of this site, with copious lifted aromas of blueberries, chocolate, gravel, and broken-in leather. Captivating on the palate as well, with refined, elegant tannin and tons of structure, alongside lightly roasted meats on the long—and we mean long—finish. Dense yet lithe and deeply rewarding with time.

2021 Turley “WHITNEY TENNESSEE” Zinfandel, ALEXANDER Valley

This small, estate-owned, pre-Prohibition vineyard in Sonoma County was purchased by the winery in 2009, and we’ve since converted all to organic farming. Planted on loam and various gravel soils, the Whitney Tennessee vineyard—named for one of Larry’s four daughters—is a mixed planting as well, with small amounts of Petite Syrah and Carignane vines sprinkled throughout.

Organically farmed pre-Prohibition vines planted head-trained and dry-farmed in the loam & gravel of Sonoma County. Profuse blue fruits, savory game, and crushed gravel. Lively synergy between acid and tannin on the palate, with a wholly satisfying texture. Best enjoyed with a quick decant.

2021 Turley “Vineyard 101” Zinfandel, Alexander Valley

Located in Sonoma, this pre-Prohibition vineyard is estate-owned and certified organic. At only 2½ acres, it is the smallest site we make into a vineyard designate, which is a shame, since the wines are consistently a staff favorite. The wines are aromatic and light, with lots of fruit and great acidity. Vineyard 101 was the first old-vine vineyard Larry purchased, and it is the longest-running estate bottling we’ve ever made.

Tiny certified organic vineyard planted pre-Prohibition in Sonoma.  As always, one of the more outright enthralling and downright delicious wines in the spring lineup. Alluring aromas of violets, blueberries, red fruits, wild fennel, and pennyroyal abound. The palate is poised and polished, lush with fruit yet taut with acidity, lissome and lovely.

2021 Turley “Bedrock Vineyard” Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley

Hailing from 1888 and owned by Joel Peterson (founder of Ravenswood) and his son Morgan Twain-Peterson of Bedrock Wine Co., the Bedrock Vineyard is truly an iconic site. Right in the heart of Sonoma Valley, these ancient vines are planted amidst volcanic rocks and Los Robles cobbly loam soil that has sloughed down from Monte Rosso. This is a layered, complex wine, owing perhaps to the small amounts of Petite Syrah and Alicante Bouschet that are also found in our organically-farmed block of Bedrock.

Organically farmed, head-trained vines dating back to 1888 in Sonoma. Fresh blue fruits, pink peppercorn, savory herbs, fennel seed, and dusty bitter chocolate are amplified on the palate, which is teeming with tannin and texture. With particularly low yields in ’21, we recommend decanting.

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