At a glance

Producer

Ridge Vineyards

Region

Alexander Valley AVA, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, United States

Grape variety

Zinfandel (73%), Carignane (17%), Petite Sirah (9%), Mataró (Mourvèdre) (1%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$75

Tasting profile

Dark berry fruits, blackberry, black cherry balanced with spiced earthiness and leather notes

Evolution: Increasing secondary flavors of tobacco, forest floor, and subtle vanilla, tannins softening

At peak: Complex layered flavors with elegant integration of fruit, tannins, and oak

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balanced

Tannins

Firm, well-integrated

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5%

Aging potential

15-20 years from vintage with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2020 to 2038

Optimal window

2018 to 2041

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window with good potential for further development

Current condition

Wine has developed complexity, tannins soften while retaining structure

Ridge Geyserville 2013 combines firm tannins and balanced acidity typical of Sonoma Zinfandel blends, allowing it to age well over 15+ years. The warm vintage contributed to ripe fruit but maintained good structure, resulting in an extended drinking window peaking generally 7-15 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, braised short ribs, roasted game birds, barbecued ribs, mature cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and allow aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Ridge Vineyards employs dry farming techniques reducing water use, uses solar energy installations for powering estate, recycles winery water, and implements integrated pest management; packaging uses lightweight bottles

Ridge Vineyards has a solid sustainability program focusing on water conservation, renewable energy, and responsible farming. The estate’s dry farming limits irrigation needs. While distribution exports add some carbon footprint, their commitment to sustainable certification and energy use lowers overall environmental impact.