Ridge Geyserville 2005

Blend: 77% Zinfandel, 17% Carignane, 6% Petite Sirah

Because of the Zinfandel's unusually firm structure, very little Petite Sirah was included in the blend. As in most years, the 120-year-old Carignane was an elegant, vibrant addition. This outstanding vintage aged fourteen months in air-dried American oak. Rich primary fruit gives the wine immediate appeal; it will develop greater complexity over the next ten years.

"77% Zinfandel; 17% Carignane; 6% Petite Sirah. Some years back Ridge removed the varietal identifier from its Geyserville red wine made substantially from Zinfandel but a field-blend in reality. But whatever they call it, it has been and continues to be a terrific Zinfandel by any standard. Its deep but still developing aromas of berries, brownies and sweet oak give way to more open and accessible ripe-berry flavors, and, contrary to the latter-day norm, the wine is free of excessive ripeness or evident heat. It has the depth to enjoy now, but given Geyserville's track record for longevity and the wine's nascent character, it is wise to cellar away a few bottles."
-Connoisseurs' Guide