In our conversations with David Gates from Ridge and Joel Peterson from Once and Future Wines (also the founder of Ravenswood), they both lamented the fact that, no matter how extraordinary a Zinfandel is, it never claims the respect from critics that lesser wines made from other grapes regularly receive. This amazing wine is the exception to that and VERY deserving of the scores it has received (I have tasted it several times and I think 96 points is spot on). Both David and Joel said that they believe the best age for Zinfandel is 7-10 years but it is just so fabulous right now, why wait?
I will also point out that the Lytton Springs winery has just about the lowest environmental impact possible for a commercial winery. And every single ingredient in the wine is listed on the label (a practice Paul Draper initiated years ago, and something a lot of very famous wineries would be embarrassed to do).
We are pleased to offer seven cases, in stock today:
2018 Ridge Lytton Springs Zinfandel, only $42.99 per bottle
The Wine Advocate rates it 96 points: "The 2018 Lytton Springs is a blend of 72% Zinfandel, 18% Petite Sirah, 8% Carignane and 2% Mataro. The nose is lush and open, with aromas of aniseed, red and blue berries, blood orange and earth plus touches of tobacco leaf and dried flowers. The medium-bodied palate combines intense, powerful flavors with a more ethereal, silty structure, and it finishes with loads of juicy layers. It's stunning straight from bottle but will have more to give with time in the cellar. Drink 2020 through 2030. 96 points."
Antonio Galloni also rates it 96 points: "The 2018 Lytton Springs is magnificent. Elegant, layered and so complete, the 2018 has a lot to offer, but it needs time to fully come together. Sweet red cherry, red plum, blood orange, spice, mint and rose petal open up in the glass. Bright acids and beams of tannin give the wine its vibrant energy. Readers should plan on cellaring the 2018 for at least a few years. Wow! Drink 2026 through 2048. 96 points."
Purchase this fabulous, reasonably priced wine here: https://sunfishcellars.com/products/ridgelyttonsprings2017
And here is a recipe for the perfect dish to serve with it: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/katie-lee/best-barbecue-ribs-ever-3364398
Open it two hours in advance and decant it an hour before serving, and prepare to have your mind blown!