91+ 2003 Ridge Independence School Zinfandel 10/11/09 ($28)
88%Zinfandel, 9% Carignane, 3% Petite Sirah 15.4% alc
Color: Deep garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Blackberries propelled by excellent acidity with cocoa oak. Has a richness almost like olive oil with cooking spices. (3.0) Body: Solid middleweight with excellent fruit and acidity. Very well balanced with a smooth, viscous texture. (3.0) Flavor: Delicious blackberries and blueberries made alive by excellent acidity with spice and cocoa complementing. (3.5) Finish: Parallels flavor, but acidity is more prevalent, making it a little less smooth and delicious, but still fine. (3.0)
Overall: This is delicious stuff! Some might want more ripe fruit and others less oak and more structure, but this is a wonderful example of what's to like and even get excited about Zinfandel. It's distinctively fruity and lively with interesting spice and enough fancy oak to add a richer mouthfeel and help integrate its components and elevate its appeal. I might describe it as a smoother, less structured version of their Geyserville. A crowd pleaser that's at its best right now. (15.5)
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