Ridge Vineyards "Lytton Springs" Zinfandel 2020 [1.5 L Magnum]
(Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California) - [ZC 95]

Notes from the Winemaker:

In 1972, Ridge made its first Lytton Springs from vines planted on the eastern half of the vineyard at the turn of the century. Both the eastern and western portions of the vineyard were purchased in the early 1990s, (In the 1870s, under “Captain” William Litton’s ownership, the two were part of one property; the spelling evolved to “Lytton” by 1903.) The vineyard is planted to zinfandel and its principal complementary varieties.

Tasting Notes:
Rich blackberry and plum on the nose with notes of aniseed. Full-bodied with dark bramble fruit and well-coated tannins on the palate. The long finish reveals layers of black licorice and dried sage. MB (4/22)

Vintage:
Plentiful rain in early November and December subsided by January. Late spring rains during flowering reduced fruit set across all varieties, especially petite sirah. Thirty-eight blocks were picked at ideal ripeness over four weeks from August to September. Of these, twenty-six were selected for their rich black fruit and perfectly balanced structure. This classic Lytton Springs will be enjoyable over the next ten years. JO (11/21)

Winemaking:
79% Zinfandel, 11% Petite Sirah, 10% Carignane

ABV: 14.6%
Harvest Dates: 21 August – 17 September
Grapes: Average Brix 25.1˚
TA: 5.97 g/L
pH: 3.74
Fermentation: Full crush; 100% natural primary and secondary.
Barrels: 100% air-dried American oak barrels (15% new, 15% one year-old, 20% two years-old, 20% three years-old, 15% four years-old, and 15% five years-old).
Aging: Thirteen months in barrel