92+ 2001 Ridge Essence Zinfandel (Lytton Estate) 12/25/11 ($35 - 375mL)
13.2% alc
Color: Super dense purple garnet. Still incredibly young looking. (4.0) Bouquet: Fresh and dried figs, black plums, cassis and cocoa with mineral oil nuances. (3.5) Body: Heavyweight with outstanding fruit concentration and viscosity. Coats big time, yet not heavy. Very good acidity, but could use a little more. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but more restrained. (3.0) Finish: Parallels flavor. (3.0)
Overall: This outstanding late harvest Zin is dense and delicious now with its combination of fresh and dried figs, plums and cassis complemented by cocoa and petrol flavors. Surprisingly young and unformed for 10 years old and may need another 10 years to be at its best. Flavor and finish are tasty, but restrained, needing more time to unfold totally. Decant for several hours for now drinking. (17.0)
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