92 2004 Ridge Pagani Ranch 3/24/07 ($30)
76% Zin, 16% Alicante Bouschet, 4% PS, 2% Carignane, 2% Mataro 14.0% alc
Color: Deep purple-garnet, can barely see through. (3.5) Bouquet: Oatmeal-infused blackberry and boysenberry, concentrated fruit. Excellent acidity with a touch of heat. (3.5) Body: Nice fruit-to-acid balance with a little tannin thrown in. A solid middleweight to light heavyweight. Some oak showing at present that adds a little bitterness. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but not as open with a little chalky acidity sticking out. (3.0) Finish: Parallels flavor with old vines complexity lingering, although could be longer. (3.0)
Overall: Yes, Pagani Ranch does it again! With nearly flawless performances since the 2000 vintage. This one is very enjoyable now after an hour in a decanter and should be at its best in 2-4 years. It’s not quite as concentrated as the 2001 or the 2003, but still an amazing value as this is becoming an American classic (at least in my book). (16.0)