Zinfandel (78%), Petite Sirah (13%), Carignane (6%), Alicante Bouschet (2%), Grenache (1%)
1x300cl * 14.5% ABV * Lytton Springs, Dry Creek Valley, California, USA
With a cult following, Ridge Wines generally sell out long before the next vintage is available, and keen fans will know that early opportunities to buy generally need to be seized upon. Their Lytton Springs comes from century-old vines found in the gravelly clay soils of Dry Creek and Alexander Valleys. The 2024 vintage saw generous rainfall, followed by a brief heat-wave in July, to which the Zinfandel proved most resilient. The fruit had good colour and concentration, and 22 select parcels were combined before 16 months of aging in American oak.
Tasting notes from the winery: 'Vibrant and expressive on the nose, the 2024 Lytton offers layers of blackberry, raspberry and dark plum, lifted by peppery spice and subtle floral notes. The palate is bold yet poised, with firm tannins and bright acidity driving its depth and precision. Accents of vanilla, liquorice and crushed stone linger on the long, refined finish.'
Tasting notes from Rebecca Gray: It is said that consumers will often fall into the Lytton Springs or the Geyserville camp, and with this in mind, it was a great privilege to taste the two side by side and learn that, although it is a close-run contest, I belong to the Lytton Springs appreciation club. With its gravelly clay soils, the second most prevalent variety after Zinfandel in this field blend is Petite Sirah, which makes up 13% of the blend. The 2024 Lytton Springs was beautifully perfumed and aromatic with a real hit of cloves and nutmeg on the nose. With bags of ripe dark berry fruit on the palate, I found the flavour profile utterly delightful and the grippy finish perfectly balanced.'
Please note that prices are in-bond and exclude Duty and VAT, which are payable when the wines land.