1999 Eric Ross Old Vine Zinfandel, Occidental Vineyard, Russian River Valley

[wondersofwine]

14.4% alcohol; natural cork
Eric Ross no longer has access to grapes from Occidental Vineyard. I regret that as this has been one of my favorite Zins over several vintages. I still own a vertical of '99, 2000 and 2001.
Dark purple color and opaque looking down into the glass. Hawaiian Fruit Punch red when backlit. Still has some richness and depth of fruit but I think it's started on the downslope. I may consume the remaining 1999 and 2000 this year. I couldn't decide if the nose was more blackberries or black currants, possibly the latter. Blackberry and boysenberry on the palate along with dried herbs. Medium to long finish. Slightly sour note. Probably better a year or two ago, but still a decent pairing for strip steak and with a wedge of Pecorino Romano cheese.