Zinfandel Lytton Springs, Ridge Vineyards 2022

This is the kingpin of Ridge’s Sonoma County heritage blends and it doesn’t disappoint. Equal parts fruity, spicy and savory on a full body braced by moderate tannins. Judicious oak spices like cedar and cigar box complement pure, ripe blackberries and raspberries and a dash of black pepper. Known to age well for decades. Drinkable now, but best from 2030.

The 2022 vintage marks the 50th vintage of the Lytton Springs wine, a confident, expressive year for the estate. Moderate spring weather led to even ripening, although a brief frost event in May caused a slight reduction in yield. However, what remained in the vines turned out to be of excellent quality and beautifully concentrated. Harvest happened just ahead of a September heatwave, a decision that preserved freshness and aromatic lift. In the glass, the 2022 Lytton Springs shows rich, firm tannins and a savoury, salty edge. Flavours of dark cherries, pluots, and ripe brambly berries unfold alongside herbaceous aromas of fennel and a touch of dried citrus peel. Aged in 15% new American oak, the wine has a really nice balance, with acidity supporting its generous fruit and mouthfeel. (Drink between 2025-2035)

The 2022 Lytton Springs 50th Anniversary is composed of 67% Zinfandel, 19% Petite Sirah, 11% Carignane and 3% Alicante Bouschet. It opens with initial touches of glossy new American oak—dill and toasted coconut—and gives way to kaleidoscopic black and red plums, cherries and berries, plus accents of hibiscus and potpourri. The full-bodied palate features generous, spicy flavors. It’s structured by abundant, powdery tannins and lively acidity and has a long, detailed finish. Winemaker Shauna Rosenblum says this 2022 was crafted using only American oak, a shift from the blend of French and American oak used in the past. It has resulted in a particularly pure, transparent expression that opens dramatically with air, and this 2022 Lytton Springs will benefit from several years in the cellar.