At a glance

Producer

Ridge Vineyards

Region

Sonoma County, California, USA

Grape variety

Zinfandel

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70

Tasting profile

Blackberry, plum, spice, herbal notes with hints of earth and pepper

Evolution: Fruit will mellow, earthier and spice notes will integrate and deepen

At peak: Complex bouquet with silky tannins and layered black fruit, spice nuances

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balanced

Tannins

Firm and gripping, expected to soften with age

Alcohol

Approx. 15-15.5%

Aging potential

10-15+ years considering producer and terroir

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2046

Optimal window

2024 to 2049

Current status

Young but approachable

Current condition

Shows primary fruit aromas with firm but approachable tannins

Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel has structure and intensity typical of premium Sonoma Zinfandel. The 2021 vintage offers ripe fruit balanced by acidity and tannin that allow a decade or more of graceful development. Drinking window reflects both producer reputation and vintage quality.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled red meats, barbecued ribs, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and dishes with pepper and spice

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Ridge Vineyards employs sustainable farming practices including cover cropping, integrated pest management, water conservation, and solar power usage at winery facilities. Packaging uses recycled materials where possible.

Ridge Vineyards is recognized for its commitment to sustainability with long-standing sustainable farming and operations practices designed to reduce environmental impact. While not organic or biodynamic certified, their proactive approach to energy, water, and soil conservation ranks them highly sustainable in the California context.