Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys 2020

This focused, firm and tannic wine exudes black pepper and wood-smoke aromas followed by rather tight espresso, blueberry and cacao flavors. Made from 74% Zinfandel and other California heritage-grape varieties, it has the bones of a cool-climate wine and should improve through at least 2028.

Opens with a juicy burst of cherry fruit, then turns brooding midway, with dark berry flavors accented by savory white pepper and bay leaf. Ends with broad-shouldered tannins. Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignan and Alicante Bouschet. Drink now through 2031. 21,000 cases made.

The Three Valleys is Ridge's general Sonoma County blend, made with fruit from ten different old-vine Zinfandel vineyards throughout Sonoma. The 2017 is comprised of 73% Zinfandel, 15% Petite Sirah, 10% Carignane and 2% Grenache, aged 11 months in 5% new American oak. The 2017 Three Valleys has a medium ruby color with scents of warm apricots and baked peaches, red cherries, blueberries, crushed stone and oodles of floral perfume. The medium-bodied palate offers concentrated, tricolored fruits with juicy acidity and grainy tannins, finishing long and perfumed.