Appealing overlay of cracked black pepper and apple pie spice aromas are your introduction. Bright, briary red berries and sweet, juicy red cherries, plum jelly and spicy oak hit the palate with a refreshing kick of acidity and gentle tannins. Medium bodied and classy, this is not made to be a showstopper, but rather a solid, classic, delicious Zin that sings with many food choices. I do think $25-$28 is a more appropriate price for it, which is achievable with some retailers and/or a volume discount.
Three Valleys is the only non-single vineyard Zinfandel made by Ridge, Three Valleys (Dry Creek, Alexander and Sonoma Valleys, I’m guessing) combines 6 vineyards. The Zin grape, with support Petite Sirah, Carignane and Grenache and skilled Ridge winegrowing are the stars.
Edward Lee: Even at it’s spiritual home, Zinfandel is not as popular as Cabernet, but in the hands of an iconic producer, it is a bargain. Bright ruby color, vibrant cherry, blackberry, brown sugar cinnamon, touch of pepper and dried herbs. Fruity without being sweet, got a nice spicy finish.
