Tasting Note                          

91+       2002 Ridge Pagani Ranch Late Picked 12/4/04 ($30)

Color: Deep garnet. (3.5) Bouquet: Ripe figs and cassis, but not forward yet. (2.5) Body: Concentrated, well balanced and acidity propelled. (3.0) Flavor: Ripe fig and lingenberry with tart acidity. Delicious and interesting. (3.5) Finish: Parallels flavor, but not as intense. Should acquire more length with age. (3.0)
Overall: An Amarone-like Zin that is top notch. It is high in alcohol and acidity, yet manages to be balanced. It is an intense Zin on the overripe side and will likely improve in the next 1-3 years. It does not possess the perfection of the 2001, but is still interesting, unique stuff. (15.5)