Cline has cranked out yet another excellent iteration of this wine. Let's hope that the vineyard owners in the region don't sell out anytime soon to the real estate developers, which apparently is a real issue with the old vines in Contra Costa County.Dark, violet-tinged ruby. Rich, low-toned fruity nose of sappy blackberry juice, toasted baking spices, toffee, and sandstone. Soft (especially for a Mourvedre, which can sometimes be a bit coarse), ripe, mouthfilling flavors of blackberry, smoky gravel, and a hint of peach juice. Long finish with well-integrated tannins and the barest trace of heat. A winner. A-. $13.99 at Spec's.
(BTW -- I had the 2009 Cline Ancient Vines Zin while on vacation, and while I have no notes for it, it too was a great value in a fleshy, balanced Zin).