This is an absolutely lovely wine, rich but balanced, with complex fruit and a solid backbone. The nose shows blackberry and elderberry, bright on top with earthiness in counterpoint. It really explodes on the palate, with the black fruit getting elbowed aside on the mid-palate by black cherry and ripe raspberry, before settling back done with hints of vanilla and sweetness, just half a forkful of blueberry pie after a full meal. Tannins are dusty, acids quite bright. This isn’t an acid-free fruit bomb – it’s a well balanced, full-bodied wine that has terrific cellar promise, particularly at this price point. If you find it don’t buy just one. It will continue to improve for at least 6-8 years. Highly Recommended. 94 points. DBH
WHO: Ridge Vineyards
WHAT: 69% Zinfandel, 18% Petite Sirah, 11% Carignane, 2% Mataro
DESIGNATION: Lytto Springs
WHERE: California, Sonoma, Healdsburg
HOW MUCH: $ 39.99