Ridge Lytton Springs, 2000

Ridge Lytton Springs wine is very much an old favorite of mine, and it is a little different every year. The 2000 was made with 80% Zinfandel and 20% Petite Syrah. It has smoothed out with time, and is an exceptionally well balanced wine rather than a stereotypical “in your face” over-alcoholic California Zinfandel. It has notes of blackberries and dark cherries with relatively gentle tannins. The oak was present, but it was certainly not overdone.

It seemed like this (summer of 2006) was the perfect time to drink this wine. Priced at slightly over $30, I like to buy some of this wine every year. It always satisfies!