Turley Zinfandel Lodi Spenker Ranch, 1997:

We opened this bottle recently, after discovering the bottle in the back of a cabinet and it provided quite a surprise.  Thirteen years later, the wine had softened from a raisiny and spicy character to one with a smooth and soft personality.  It paired well with a home made Provencial Ratatouille but in its youth, I’m sure it would have been a great match for beef.  Would I search for bottle now.  No, but it serves notice that well constructed Zins (and Helen Turley is one of the best) have a long life.  If you have any from the last 5-10 years, feel comfortable that with stable storage, they will provide you with lots of pleasure.

Shea Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Shea Vineyard Estate, 2006: