91 Points - 2012 California State Fair Wine Competition
Nervo Station Vineyard, located on a hillside in the we stern part of Alexander Valley, has two blocks of Zinfandel planted in 1896 and one block planted in 1934. As is typical of older Zinfandel Vineyards, there are numerous other varietals inter-planted in the vineyard including Petite Sirah, Carignane and Mataro among others. Farmed by the Nervo family for three generations, these head pruned vines produce a very limited crop that results in concentrated and complex flavors and aromas of ripe plum, blackberry and cassis, with hints of anise, exotic spices and white pepper.
Vintage: 2009
Varietal: Zinfandel
Vineyard: Nervo Station Vineyard
Appellation: Alexander Valley
Cooperage: Barrel Aged over 18 months - 45% new American barrels, 25% new French barrels 30% select one to three year old American and French barrels
Brix: 26.4º
pH: 3.65
TA: .57 g/100ml
Alcohol: 15.6%
Production: 430 cases
96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
97 Points
Aromas of blackberries, graphite, and crushed rock, along with cedar, tobacco leaf, cassis, and a medley of dry herbs and spice.
A substantial mouthfeel, full-bodied structure, firm tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit. Well-balanced acidity collaborate harmoniously to accentuate the intricate flavors of berry compote, spices, and oak nuances reminiscent of mocha.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
97 Points
Lush and fleshy, with cassis, boysenberry, and blackberry notes guided by hints of alder and mesquite. Stays open but defined through the finish, with a buried hint of sweet tobacco. A rich, layered beast, this has a nose rife with currants, blackberries, vanilla, and light toast with flavors of mocha, plum, and Bing cherry that mingle harmoniously on the tongue.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
98 Points
Deep purple hue and an alluring aromatic profile of fresh blue fruits and delicate violets. On the palate, it delivers a seamless and layered texture, framed by supple, polished tannins and a refined sense of balance. Elegantly structured, it offers remarkable purity and finesse, finishing with graceful length and poise.
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