Introduction:
The 2023 Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel is a standout from one of Sonoma Valley’s oldest vineyards, blending history and complexity in every sip. Built to impress, it combines field-blend richness with refined balance — ideal for those who appreciate Zinfandel that can age yet deliver immediate pleasure.

Terroir:
From Pagani Ranch, a vineyard planted in the late 19th to early 20th century, situated on the western side of Sonoma Valley. The vines are hand-tended; many are very old, others more recent plantings supplement. The growing season for 2023 was coolish: a late winter, a slow spring pushing bloom into June, and a sturdy, late harvest. The mixed planting includes Zinfandel as the core, with Alicante Bouschet, Petite Sirah, and Mataro contributing to structure, color, and savory depth.

Appearance:
Very dark garnet, with almost opaque depth in the core and vibrant purple sheen at the rim. The legs are thick and slow-falling, signaling high extract and richness.

Nose:
Enticing aromas of ripe strawberry merging with tropical notes like guava, complemented by fennel, orange zest, and a backdrop of dark chocolate, licorice, and toasty oak. The bouquet is layered and inviting, with both brightness and depth.

Palate:
Full-bodied, rich, and structured. Primary flavors of blackberry, dark cherry cobbler, and brambly fruit are given weight by oak-derived vanilla and spice, while the blending varieties contribute tannic grip and color. Acidity is bright enough to freshen the wine, balancing the lush fruit and oak. Texture is plush, with a well-coated feel in the mouth.

Finish:
Long and persistent, with dark fruit lingering alongside toasted oak spice, licorice, and subtle herbal/mineral grit. There’s power here, but also enough lift to keep the finish from feeling heavy.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Meat dish: Smoked brisket with a dry rub or grilled ribeye with cracked black pepper

• Vegetarian option: Grilled portobello mushrooms with balsamic glaze or eggplant parmigiana with fresh basil

• Cheese pairing: Aged Manchego or smoked Gouda — cheeses that can stand up to tannin and weight

Overall Impression:
The 2023 Pagani Ranch Zinfandel is a striking expression of historic Sonoma vines — intense dark fruit, spice, and oak woven together in a wine that’s both luxurious and structured. It brings together the bold richness Zinfandel lovers crave and the finesse that encourages contemplation. A wine made for special meals now, and with the build to evolve gracefully over time.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.4%
Farming Practices: Historic vineyard; hand-harvested; minimal intervention
Producer Name: Ridge Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Sonoma Valley, California
Grape Varietals: 79% Zinfandel; 10% Alicante Bouschet; 9% Petite Sirah; 2% Mataro
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Dry red; rich, full-bodied; fruit-driven with spice and oak complexity
Winemaking Techniques: Native yeast fermentation; full malolactic; aging in air-dried American oak barrels (small portion new)
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork

98 points, Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2023 Zinfandel Pagani Ranch is from a simply gorgeous and truly historic site, made in an elegant, medium-bodied style and blending 79% zinfandel, 10% alicante bouschet, 9% petite sirah, and 2% mataro, fermented separately until the final blend. Citrus, orange peel, and honeycomb highlight a complex framework of Old World dustiness and savory delight. Juicy red fruit, light spice, and a gorgeously silky texture continue the theme. This is one to age another 10-15 years."

96 points, Decanter:
"The 2023 Pagani Ranch Zinfandel reflects the cooler vintage with striking energy. The fruit comes from a unique block in the historic site that naturally traps morning fog and receives limited sun exposure in any given year. In 2023, the effect of slow ripening was even greater and really pushed to a vibrant, bright fruit profile wine. In 2023, it was the last fruit harvested in Sonoma for Ridge - picked between late October and early November. The oak regimen adds a great deal of nuance: just 3% new barrels, with the majority aged in varying degrees of older wood - 10% one-year-old, 20% two-year-old, 50% three-year-old, and 17% neutral. Expect lifted red and blue fruit, high-toned spices, and dried citrus peel. The palate is softly textured, with a touch of nuttiness and a light sweetness from ripe berries and dried apricots, but nothing overwhelming. The acidity is a real standout, suggesting excellent aging potential."

95 points, Wine Spectator:
"A dynamic Zin that's both potent and polished. Flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate, licorice, and fruitcake spices build richness and tension toward broad-shouldered tannins. Drink now through 2035."