Vespertine Old Vine Zinfandel 2012 (USA)

Nose:  Originally pretty light, but it got heavier as things went along. Definite cherry, dark fruits and some oakiness, maybe with something spicy at the end.  Has an overriding earthiness/dampness.

Taste:  Pretty dry, cherries/dark cherries.  Small elements of sweetness.

Finish: A bit tart with medium tannins.  Minerals at the very end.

What we say:  S - "The nose is almost damp, or musty?'  V - 'Sort of like a spiced cherry cake?'  S -  'I just smell all kinds of weird things.  Like I just smelled meat, which I'm pretty sure is not actually in there.'  'Is there a smokiness to it, like hickory?' 'Now I smell wet dog - it changes all the time'  V- 'Definitely has the aftertaste of mineral water' 'It's dry, but the tartness is messing me up a bit.'  S - 'I taste hickory now'  V - 'Yeah, it's just a little bit smokey'  S - 'Every time I sip this I think it tastes like something different.  It's like the candy in Willy Wonka'

What they say:  A wine of immense charm and character. Fruit is at the fore - blackcurrant and classic raisin notes, supported by perfectly structured vanilla oak tones.

Rating: 5.5 (V - 5; S - 6)

Price: £17.99