2011 Ridge Geyserville (Zinfandel)

Dark red/black cherries, menthol, tar, licorice, smoke and tobacco emerge from the 2011 Zinfandel Geyserville. Deep, muscular and imposing, the 2011 boasts impeccable class, pedigree and balance. This is another drop-dead gorgeous wine from Ridge. The blend is 78% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 4% Petite Sirah, 1% Alicante Bouschet and 1% Mataro (Mourvedre).

(made from a blend of 78% zinfandel, 16% carignane, 4% petite sirah, 1% alicante bouschet and 1% mataro): Youthful violet color. Powerful, musky aromas of dried cherry, cassis, violet and vanilla, with a floral topnote. Energetic and precise on the palate, offering sappy red and dark berry flavors that become sweeter with air. A mocha quality comes up on the smooth, gently tannic finish, which lingers with very good tenacity. This fruit was harvested between September 21 and October 3, so all was in literally a day before the heavy rains fell.

The 2011 Geyserville impresses for its silkiness and texture. Sweet dark berries, flowers, licorice and mint are some of the notes that take shape in the glass. The 2011 is a decidedly mid-weight, feminine style of Geyserville. Floral notes reappear on the finish, adding lift and vibrancy. The 2011 should drink well upon release and also age. To make the 2011, Ridge was especially selective and fewer parcels made it into the blend than normal, especially with the Petite Sirah. The blend is 80% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane 3% Petite Sirah and 1% Alicante Bouschet.