Ridge Vineyards - Lytton Springs 2023

Ridge's wines are some of the best the U.S. has to offer— year after year they produce elegant, age-worthy wines that rival the best in the world. It's no wonder that Ridge first came to prominence at the Judgement of Paris, with its signature Monte Bello holding its own against the best First Growth Bordeaux.

Ridge's Monte Bello location in the Santa Cruz Mountains was first planted to vine in the late 19th century (wine was being produced as early as 1892!) though thanks to Prohibition (everyone's favorite), the vineyards fell into disrepair. The property was purchased in 1940, and although a small amount of Cabernet was produced then,1962 was the first vintage crafted as we know Ridge today. In 1991, Ridge added the Lytton Springs property in Sonoma County to their estate.

The philosophy at Ridge is simple: they strive to make "pre-industrial" wines. What exactly is "pre-industrial" wine? Basically, they've been making natural wine since well before it became fashionable, much like many of the best estates in Europe. They let the grapes speak for themselves, intervening in the process only when necessary. At the end of the day, grapes are fruit, and Ridge aims to bring the distinct fruit flavors of their carefully grown grapes to their wines.

While Monte Bello is known as one of the best wines in the world, Ridge's other cuvees are just as good; it's a wonder that they're not all as expensive. To get wines of this quality at these prices is a rarity in today's market.

“Blending 76% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 7% Carignane, 2% Alicante Bouschet and 1% Mataro from an estate vineyard in Dry Creek Valley purchased in 1972, the 2023 Zinfandel Lytton Springs exhibits initial chewiness that leads to fine tannins, with a good heft and underlying acidity. Well-woven oak supports a moderately ripe, medium-bodied frame of structured elegance, aged in 100% air-dried American oak. Enjoy now through 2033.” - 98 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

“A much cooler growing season delayed the start of harvest by about a month, resulting in a wine with greater restraint than the previous vintage. The 2023 is a more elegant take on this wine, with less fruit intensity, but still unmistakably Ridge. Fresh aromas of herbs from a bouquet garni mix with earthy tones and subtle sweet notes from baking spices. The fruit profile oscillates between ripe red and black berries, with a touch of plums and ripe cherries. Tannins are firm yet polished, and there's a soft creaminess to the palate. A wine that is balanced and quite enjoyable now, with many years to evolve in the bottle.” - 96 Points, Decanter

“Deeply structured and full of tension, this polished red displays a distinctive personality, offering bold blackberry flavors accented with savory anise, black pepper and dark Asian spices. Ends with big but refined tannins. Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignane, Alicante Bouschet and Mataro.” - 95 Points, Wine Spectator

Producer: Ridge Vineyards

Country: USA

Region: California

Varietal: Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Carignan

Appellation: Dry Creek Valley

Vintage: 2023

Size: 750ml