TN: 2006 Carlisle Zinfandel Bacchi Ranch

WINE TALK
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  • 2006 Carlisle Zinfandel Bacchi Ranch - USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley (3/19/2012)
    Drank this wine over the course of several days; not surprisingly, it tasted the best on the last day. Started out a bit oaky and hot, but by the fourth day it came together to display pleasingly decadent notes of dark chocolate, roasted figs, blackberry jam, espresso bean and campfire. Bold and rich on the palate – layered, with a nice mouthfeel – finishing with some mineral and graphite-laden tannins. While I was admittedly not a fan of this wine on the first night, especially since I’m not much of a Zin drinker, after sitting open for a few days, it was really strutting its stuff and rather enjoyable to drink. Who’da thunk it? Decant heavily if opening now. (90 pts.)

Posted from CellarTracker

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I actually opened this wine last night and am sipping it now. Upon opening, I was impressed by the flavors (and I wish I could describe them), but found it had more tannin and acid than I like. Tonight, it’s a bit more mellow, although that’s probably not the best descriptor. Still a fair amount of tannin, and it would probably be better with food (I’m having it alone), but enjoyable. I’ll save some for tomorrow, but doubt it will make it until Thrusday.

I’ve been on a program to reduce my Carlisle inventory to make room for the new releases, and have been drinking a bottle of Zinfandel just about every week for the last month and a half. So far, the standout is the 2008 Montafi, an absolutely brilliant wine.

David

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David-keep up the good work (if that’s what you call it)! [cheers.gif]

I have found the '06s to be the “problem children” in Mike’s ouevre. Across the board they are more angular, more alcoholic, and less pleasing then any other vintage he has produced…from Sonoma County to the Carlizzle Vyd they are absent the lushness I expect from a Carlisle; and this view comes from no prompting from the WB board or elsewhere…just how I have perceived the last 20+ bottles of that vintage.

I’m now down to a couple of cases of various '06s, and every time I go down to the cellar for a Zin, I ask myself if I am into punishment mode (in which case it’ll be an '06) or sensual mode…in which case almost any other Carlisle vintage will work! flirtysmile

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Stu:

We miss you at the annual tastings. Some of the 2006 Zinfandels may be less lush than some vintages, but I certainly would not consider it punishement to drink the 2006’s from Carlo’s, Tom Feeney, and Pietro’s. Unfortunately I drank all my Tom Feeney’s and have only one each of the other two.

David