96 2009 Ridge Pagani Ranch 12/2/11 ($32)
80% Zinfandel, 14% AlicanteBouchet, , 4% PetiteSirah, 2% Carignane 15.0% alc
Color: Black purple garnet. (4.0) Bouquet: Blackberries, boysenberries and black cherries. Very concentrated and acidity propelled. Sweet oak underneath and very well integrated. Briar and forestal old vines complexity. (3.5) Body: Heavyweight with intense chalky acidity propelling more intense, sweet/tart fruit. Coats the mouth beautifully with lots of smooth tannins in the background. (4.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but slightly restrained. (3.0) Finish: An explosion of sweet/tart Zinberry that goes on and on, with old vines complexity and marzipan. (4.0)
Overall: An amazing Pagani with super Zinberry concentration combined with fierce acidity that propels it all. Already shows wonderful old vines complexity that should just get better with time. Delicious now if you don't mind them a little fierce. Should develop fully over the next 8-10 years. Look out Carlisle! (18.5)
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