Dunnuck 98 – best Ridge Zinfandel or blend ever (and eclipsed by only one vintage of their $300 Monte Bello):
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.
Also best ever for the Wine Spectator:
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. Drink now through 2035.
And best ever for Decanter, at 96 points:
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.
Best ever for Vinography, the Zinfandel Chronicles and several other publications, too.
Finally, best Lytton Springs ever on CellarTracker by far, with reviews like this:
Showstopping nose of red and black fruits, plums, earth and pepper. Medium to full bodied with exquisite acidity. There is a remarkable core of dark fruits presented in a package with notable power, structure and concentration. Blackberry, raspberry liqueur, marionberry and white pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. This is a Lytton Springs for the ages. Best over the next decade or so.
Again, just a case in now – but more on the way!
