Ridge Vineyards Lytton Springs 2023

#3 TOP 100 WINE OF THE YEAR 2025 : In 1962, Ridge Vineyards made its first wine, Monte Bello Cabernet, and two years later its first Zinfandel. Since that time, Ridge has championed single-vineyard winemaking, searching California for those rare and exceptional vineyards where climate, soil, and variety are ideally matched. They are a standard bearer with virtually no peers.

Look for a nose of raspberry, pepper, licorice and a hint of vanilla. Black cherry and plum on the palate with supple tannins, minerality and present acidity. Long, layered finish with notes of garrigue and black tea.