Turley Cellars Zinfandel Del Barba 2021 (750ML)

93 WA / 92-94 VM

The Del Barba Vineyard fruit, from vines planted around 40 years ago, used to be incorporated into the Duarte wine. This is the first time it has been bottled on its own, winemaker Tegan Passalacqua explains. Turley lost one of its older vineyard sources in Contra Costa County to new home development—a common occurrence in California and why producers who work with the state's oldest vines are so crucial to saving them. Medium ruby in color, the 2021 Zinfandel Del Barba Vineyard opens its scents of red cherry and blackberry over several minutes in the glass, plus hints of vanilla and earth. The medium-bodied palate is chalky and fresh with perfumed fruit and a long, floral finish. It's elegant but youthfully coiled and will benefit from 2-3 years in bottle.—Erin Brooks, The Wine Advocate

The 2021 Zinfandel Del Barba emerges from a site that formerly was used for the Duarte bottling. Bright and punchy, with gorgeous purity, the 2021 is positively stellar. Bright red/purplish Zinfandel fruit, blood orange and exotic spice abound. This is such a compelling wine. With a projected price around $30 a bottle, the 2021 hugely overdelivers-Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media