Zinfandel, Carignan, Petite Syrah, Alicante Bouschet
75cl * 14.5% ABV * Alexander Valley, California, USA
Ridge's first vines were planted in 1885, but it took almost 100 years for the producer to wow the world: its wines swept the board at Steven Spurrier's 1976 Judgement of Paris competition. Ever since, Ridge has produced wines that have been rightfully regarded alongside the finest Bordeaux blends and Burgundy's top whites.
Nevertheless, Zinfandel, grown in Lytton Springs and Geyserville, has become another jewel in their crown. This was the 54th consecutive vintage of Geyserville and the growing season in 2019 was marked by a long, wet winter and a mild summer. A classic in the making, it captivates with notes of dark berries, cherries and plums, warm gravel and sweet oak spice. Full and cream-textured, there's a lovely mineral, graphite-tinged element to the finish. Drink now to 2035.
94 Points, James Suckling