The wine is opaque in the center, garnet around the edges. Aromas of dark fruits, deep earth, herbs, and unsweetened chocolate all roil up from the glass, offering a full, rich mouthful. Petite Sirah gives an anchor to Zinfandel and Carignane lifts it, altogether giving an incredibly broad spectrum of black fruits, from deep and earthy to bright, zingy, and fresh. This will continue to knit together in the bottle for at least another five years, and probably a decade. Drink with patience, but when the time comes, match it with a fine filet. Very Highly Recommended. 95 points. DBH
WHO: Ridge Vineyard
WHAT:74% Zinfandel,16% Petite Sirah, 8% Carignane, 2% Mourvedre
DESIGNATION: Lytton Springs
WHERE: Dry Creek Valley
HOW MUCH: $40 (media sample)