RIDGE VINEYARDS Zinfandel 'East Bench' Dry Creek Valley 2020 Bottle ORG

Description

Premium Dry Creek Valley fruit, crafted with the estate’s hallmark precision. This vintage is particularly notable for being a rare 100% Zinfandel, sourced from a vineyard planted on ancient gravelly benches. The nose is incredibly vibrant, offering an aromatic profile of wild raspberry, black cherry, and a touch of dusty cocoa.

On the palate, the wine displays a classic structure with bright acidity and firm, well-integrated tannins. Flavours of sun-ripened bramble fruit are complemented by savoury notes of cracked black pepper and toasted American oak. The finish is remarkably long and elegant, maintaining a sense of freshness despite its concentration. It is a sophisticated, terroir-driven wine that beautifully captures the intensity and pedigree of old-school Californian Zinfandel.

*****

JAMES SUCKLING 94
Lots of blackberries and wrought iron with cloves and black peppercorns. Medium-bodied with firm, chewy tannins that are linear and run the length of the wine. Solid and fine. Focused. Drink or hold.

DECANTER 94
Drinking Window: 2023 - 2033
Vividly briary - as though one fell into a patch of raspberry bushes - it’s also very structured and full of cassis flavours, leading one to momentarily wonder if there isn’t some Cabernet in there. Long and layered, it reveals itself slowly. East Bench is one of the few Ridge Zinfandels that is 100% Zinfandel. The vineyard sits on a high west-facing bench of land overlooking Dry Creek Valley from the east. As is common in Dry Creek Valley, the vines are head trained - without trellising - even though they were planted relatively recently in 2000. Dry Creek may well be California’s most renowned AVA for Zinfandel, and this wine shows its classic provenance.

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ABOUT RIDGE VINEYARDS
Ridge Vineyards is a distinguished winery located in California, recognized for its premium wines and commitment to sustainable farming practices. Established in 1962, Ridge is particularly noted for its exceptional Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as its innovative winemaking techniques.

The winery has two main estate vineyards: Monte Bello in the Santa Cruz Mountains and Lytton Springs in Sonoma County. Both locations are celebrated for their unique terroirs and climate, which play a crucial role in the quality of the grapes.

Ridge specializes in Zinfandel but also produces a variety of other varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and various blends. Their Zinfandels are especially known for their depth and complexity.

Ridge Vineyards places a strong emphasis on sustainable agriculture, employing organic and dry-farming techniques that minimize water usage and enhance the wines' natural flavors. The winery follows a minimal intervention approach to winemaking, allowing the characteristics of both the fruit and the terroir to shine through, with an emphasis on natural fermentation and aging in oak barrels.

The wines from Ridge have earned numerous awards and accolades from critics, often highlighted for their quality and aging potential. The Monte Bello Cabernet Sauvignon is frequently recognized as one of California's top wines.

Founded by a group of friends, including winemaker Paul Draper, Ridge has established a reputation in the wine industry, with Draper's influence continuing to reflect the winery's dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Ridge Vineyards remains a leading name in California's wine scene, known for its commitment to excellence, sustainability, and a rich winemaking heritage.