2023 Ridge - Zinfandel Pagani Ranch Sonoma (750ml)

From Ridge’s long-running Pagani Ranch Zinfandel program, the 2023 Ridge - Zinfandel Pagani Ranch Sonoma (750ml) embodies the cool, fog-blessed character of this storied site on the western edge of Sonoma Valley. Pagani Ranch, cultivated since the 1890s and nurtured by four generations of a quality-minded family, has become a benchmark for serious Zinfandel in the region. The 2023 vintage was shaped by a block that naturally traps morning fog and receives limited sun, producing slower ripening and a bright, vibrant fruit profile that still carries depth and structure. Tasting Notes - Aromas balance wild berry fruit with tobacco, aniseed, sage, and lavender, inviting you into layers of aromatic complexity. - On the palate, the wine delivers a full-bodied, concentrated array of flavors, coaxed by fine, chalky tannins and refreshed by bright acidity. - A soft, lightly textured mouthfeel carries subtle nuttiness and a touch of sweetness from ripe berries and dried apricot, with a finish that unfolds in multiple layers. - The bright acidity and structured tannins point to strong aging potential, making this a wine that rewards patience. Wine Details - Blend: 79% Zinfandel, 10% Alicante Bouschet, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro - Maturation: 14 months in barrels, with just 3% new air-dried American oak - Vintage note: last fruit harvested in Sonoma for Ridge that year, between late October and early November Food Pairing and Serving - This is a serious, age-worthy red that shines alongside grilled meats and barbecue, where smoky, charred flavors echo the wine’s depth. - Aged hard cheeses also provide a compelling counterpoint to the wine’s fruity richness and structural bite. - Serve at cellar temperature and allow the wine to breathe a few minutes to fully reveal its layered character.