Ridge "Three Valleys" Zinfandel 2023
(Sonoma County, California) - [WS 93] [JD 93] [VM 93] [DM 92]

Notes from the Winemaker:

The history of the Ridge Three Valleys began with the release of the 2001. The wine contains grapes from a number of Sonoma vineyards—this year, ten. We take great care in selecting the fruit, which is hand-harvested, then crushed and fermented on its native yeast and naturally occurring malolactic bacteria at both Monte Bello and Lytton Springs wineries. Unlike our single-vineyard wines, which reflect the distinctive character of each site, Three Valleys represents the blending of vineyards—winemaking—at its finest. Zinfandel determines the wine’s varietal character; old-vine carignane contributes bright fruit and acidity; petite sirah spice, depth of color, and firm tannins.

93 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Generous and robust yet retains a sense of polish, with expressive raspberry and blueberry flavors highlighted by licorice and pepper, plus a whiff of dill as this builds toward fine-grained tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Mataro and Alicante Bouschet. Drink now through 2034." (TF)

93 Points - Vinous:
"The 2023 Three Valleys is a serious edition of this bottling from Ridge. Firm and structured, it delivers brambly blue fruit, graphite, vanilla, licorice and tons of spice, all wrapped up in a voluptuous, curvy frame. The Ridge house style is on full display. Best of all, the 2023 punches way above its modest price point. Though this is the ultimate by-the-glass pour or house red, it's complex enough to stand with the big boys in this portfolio. (Drink between 2025-2033)" -BN (10/25)

93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"Made since 2001 from a number of Sonoma County vineyards, the 2023 Three Valleys blends 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% each Mataro and Alicante Bouschet from Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Valley, and Russian River Valley. Floral, it is complex and less rustic than usual, the vintage showing classic charm and elegance. Though it is one of Ridge's largest production wines, it is made in the exact same way as all its others, in open top tanks with real oak and native fermentations. It's meant to represent a vintage more than a location. A popular by-the-glass pour, order it when you see it. It's drinking well now and should continue to for another 5-7 years." (VB)

92 Points - Decanter:
"The wine is made using the same traditional methods as their vineyard-designated offerings, including native yeast fermentation, open-top fermenters, and ageing in American oak (with around 10% new oak in 2023), which lends Ridge’s hallmark spice and structure. This vintage is composed of 70% Zinfandel, sourced from various Ridge vineyards, and is designed for approachability and broad appeal. In the glass, it presents an abundance of black fruit, layered with crushed floral tones. The tannins are lightly grippy with hints of baking spice and toast on the finish. A versatile, food-friendly red, and a nice by-the-glass pour." (ACQ)

91 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"The 2023 Three Valleys is a blend of 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro and 2% Alicante Bouschet that matured for 12 months in 19% new air-dried American oak. It has layered aromas of wild berries, Italian plums, chargrilled meats, resinous herbs and lavender. The full-bodied palate offers highly concentrated flavors, though it’s light on its feet, with chalky tannins and vibrant acidity. It has a long, spicy finish. Expressive and elegant, it overdelivers this vintage! 2025-2035." -EB (9/25)