From the cooler climate, upper reaches of Howell Mountain, the 2001 Zinfandel Pringle Family Vineyard (16.2% alcohol) boasts a saturated purple color as well as a terrific perfume of minerals, creme de cassis, and blackberry liqueur. Revealing great intensity, surprising structure, tremendous purity, and good underlying acidity buttressing the enormous wealth of fruit and glycerin, this is a tour de force in Zinfandel. This brilliant effort will probably evolve for a decade, but it is best consumed over the next 5-6 years. Gorgeous stuff! Tel. (707) 963-0940

My favorite Turley Zin tends to be the Zinfandel Pringle Family Vineyard from high up Howell Mountain. This vineyard is usually harvested in November, particularly in such cool years as 1998 or 2000. The 2000 Zinfandel Pringle Family Vineyard's whopping 16.2% alcohol is hidden beneath its exceptionally concentrated blackberry, plum, prune, and licorice characteristics. It is medium to full-bodied, with more tannin than its peers. This wine clearly emerged from a cooler climate vineyard. (Release date 10/02) Tel. (707) 963-0940; Fax (707) 963-8683