From Mike Officer's home vineyard, the Carlisle Zin is great in every vintage but in 2018 they continued to exceed expectations. A blend of mostly Zinfandel (86%) and 14% mixed "black" grapes including Alicante Bouschet and Cinsault from 91-year-old vines. Inky purple swirls with deep ruby hues make for a very attractive appearance. Opaque and bright. The nose is concentrated with raspberries, black cherries, slight pine and spice. A seamless texture that makes this so accessible even while being so young. On the palate, black raspberries, slight blueberries, black cherries with underlying char and spice and slight roasted herbs. Long finish. Delicious. This is still young and will improve a bit over the next couple of years and should drink well for ten years after that. One of, if not the best Zinfandel of the vintage. Truly a great value!
