2023 Turley Pesenti Vineyard Zinfandel

Turley Wine Cellars makes forty-seven wines from over fifty vineyards, the vast majority of which are single vineyards designated Zinfandels and Petite Syrahs. By focusing on old vine vineyards, in particular, Turley aims to both create and preserve California’s unique winemaking culture. All of their vineyards are either certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers or in the certification process. They use all-natural yeasts in the fermentations. Turley aims to be the stewards of California’s most historic vineyards, producing distinctive wines that reflect their heritage.

Situated 8 miles from the coast, the Willow Creek District in Paso Robles AVA has a Mediterranean climate, resulting in remarkable wines due to temperature shifts. In 1922, Pesenti Vineyard changed block orientation, revolutionizing grape ripening and harvest. Winemaker Karl Wicka produces Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, Tecolote (Grenache/Carignane), and Grenache Blanc. The calcareous soil and interplanted Carignane vines give Pesenti Zin a unique "sweet-tart-esque" character. Petite Syrah from Hayne Vineyard cuttings offers vibrancy. Tecolote blends old vine Grenache and Carignane, and Grenache Blanc adds to the collection.

Paso Robles was once underwater, now featuring uplifted seabed and a Mediterranean climate, ideal for grapes. Frank Pesenti, arriving in the late 1880s, transformed a forested ranch into a Zinfandel vineyard by 1922, creating Pesenti Winery from his bricklaying skills. Larry Turley purchased it in 2000, honoring Pesenti's legacy.

Aging: 12 months in barrel