WOW: Three is not ALWAYS a crowd...

WOW: Wine of the Week

Ridge "Three Valleys" Zinfandel: Three is not ALWAYS a crowd!

Uncorked is taking this week to reintroduce a household favorite and recognized name: Ridge Winery!  Well known for their outstanding single vineyard Zinfandels, they too have a blended Zinfandel stemming from more than just one flagship vineyard.  As you will see below, this particular blend has come from seven (7) vineyards in all, proving that three (or seven!) is not ALWAYS a crowd!

Product Description

"The history of the Ridge Sonoma County Three Valleys began with the release of the 2001. The wine contains grapes from a number of Sonoma vineyards - this year, seven. We take great care in selecting the fruit, which is hand-harvested, then crushed and fermented at both Monte Bello and Lytton Springs. Unlike our single-vineyard wines, which reflect the distinctive character of each site, Three Valleys represents the blending of vineyards - winemaking - at it's 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; grenache brings briary fruit and lively tannins. " - Winery Notes

Ridge "Three Valleys" Zinfandel 2011 Reviews

"Editor's Choice:  Ridge hews to a leaner, lower alcohol style than most California wineries these days, resulting in wines that aren’t blockbusters, but are complex and food-friendly. This bottling defines such a style. It’s dry and lithe in the mouth yet gently tannic, with suggestions of berry jam, bacon, grilled mushrooms and hints of balsamic and soy sauce." - 91, Wine Enthusiast

Ridge "Three Valleys" Zinfandel 2011 Tasting Notes

"Aromas of briar fruit, dried herbs, clay earth, and sweet oak. Fresh raspberry and cherry flavors together with savory oak spice. Medium bodied with moderate acidity, round tannins, and a lively finish." - Winery Notes
65% Zinfandel, 20% Petite Sirah, 9% Carignane, 3% Mataro, 2% Alicante Bouschet and 1% Grenache.