The color is not quite opaque, garnet all the way through. Gorgeous black raspberry and vanilla float up on the nose. On the palate it’s a bit reductive, and offers plums, raspberry, licorice, and black pepper. Tannins are dusty, acids bright. This is a bit more ripe and a bit less complex than expected. Drink with dry-rub pork ribs. Recommended. 88 points. DBH
WHO: Ridge Vineyards
WHAT: 97% Zinfandel, 3% Petite Sirah
DESIGNATION: Ponzo Vineyard
WHERE: Russian River Valley, California
HOW MUCH: $35 (media sample)