90 2000 Ridge Paso Robles Zin 9/13/04 $18
Color: Medium garnet with some clearing and onion skin. (3.0) Bouquet: Ripe fig and Zinberry/cassis fruit with clove, bayleaf and oregano. A fantastic montage of nuances, even though not as intense as a great vintage. (3.5) Body: Well balanced with rich fruit and spicy, ripe complexity. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but less complex and intense. (2.5) Finish: Parallels flavor, but more intense, just not quite equaling the bouquet. (3.0)
Overall: This is fantastic for a wine from an off-vintage at a great price. Irregardless, it is a ripe, balanced Zin of excellence. The consistency of Ridge Zins, particularly in off vintages is impressive.