This outstanding wine boasts a whopping (for this producer) 14.5% alcohol, but you would never suspect that based on the wine's outstanding balance and concentration. Deep ruby/purple-colored, with a classy nose of spice, vanillin, black fruits, minerals, and a hint of flowers, this medium to full-bodied effort reveals more approachability and sweetness on the attack than most Storybook Reserve Zinfandels possess at such a youthful age. Beautifully concentrated, pure, and long, the wine can be drunk now, but 2 more years of cellaring will be beneficial. Moreover, I predict this will be one of the few Zinfandels from 1996 to reach age 10 or 12 in a graceful, fresh condition.Storybook Mountain Vineyard has been one of the consistent practitioners of the elegant, ageworthy style of Zinfandel. Recently, the wines have taken on more accessibility without compromising their ability to age; the top cuvees can easily last ten or more years.Tel. (707) 942-5310