2002 ‘Teldeschi’ Zinfandel - Ravenswood

I had this wine recently and thought I’d share my impressions. Dry Creek Valley is known for producing great Zinfandels and this wine is no exception. The nose is overflowing with amazingly ripe raspberry/blackberry and bitter dark chocolate (some might say coffee). Hints of strawberries, roses, and cured meat add the complexity of this rich wine. Oak is noticeable but not overdone and the finish is long and satisfying. Its ample tannins suggest that, though good now, it could age for a few more years. Most importantly for a Zin of this size is that it is not over ripe, there are no stewed flavours and the sugar level is in check (however, it is alcoholic at 14.8%). This would be an example of a ripe wine pulled off correctly (refer to post “Ripe or Over Ripe?”), and that’s why I like it so much. 91-94 from International Wine Cellar and a 93 from Stimmell of the Toronto Star. A bit pricey but worth a try if you want to see what 93 point Cali Zin can be. $44.95 E

Sometime in the future I will do a tasting compilation of Californian Zinfandels to go into the subject in more depth. Stay tuned! More stuff coming time permitting.