95 2008 Ridge Lytton Springs (Dry Creek Valley) 10/14/18 ($35)
74% Zinfandel, 21% Petite Sirah, 5% Carignane 14.4% alc
Color: Deep garnet with just a hint of browning at rim and no clearing. (3.0) Bouquet: Black cherry, blackberry and boysenberry fruit complemented by intense briar, subtle cocoa and hint of mushrooms. Very aromatic (Ridge perfume). (3.5) Body: Heavyweight with excellent fruit, acidity and tannins. Coats mouth beautifully and very well balanced. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but fruit is even more open and giving. (3.5) Finish: Parallels flavor, being very long, complex and delicious. (3.5)
Overall: A great Lytton Springs that is now fully developed. Was outstanding right from release due to its great balance and giving fruit, but has gained elegance and complexity with age that now make it great. The black cherry, blackberry and boysenberry fruit has gotten more exotic and the musky old vines flavors are more expressive than when young. It also shows intense, classic DCV briary spice. Nuances of mushrooms hint at it age, but the fruit is still fresh and delicious. One of the finest Lytton Springs I've tasted. Drink now and in the next few years. (17)
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