Some Drinking Windows

I have been sampling through the past few vintages so that I can keep everyone updated on drinking windows.

The 2010s for the most part are in a perfect window, and while I’m not sure they are peaking, I do believe the are in a sweet spot that might not get any better!

The 2011s are starting to get very good.  I told everyone on release that this would be the first Booker vintage that took time to mellow out.  At Christmas we opened a Ripper Magnum and it was arguably the best Ripper I have ever made.  These wines can be consumed now, but they can also be held without any issues.

The 2012s oddly enough seem to be peaking now.  I know they are only in year four, but they do not have the big acid and structure that 2011 had.  I would begin consuming these now and hold onto the 2011s if  you are deciding between vintages.  Remember, some vintages give us big acid and structure, but that usually means the wines will need more time before they are ready to consume.  Vintages that do not show that are generally better early on, but do not have the best aging ability.