Ridge Vineyards LYTTON SPRINGS Zinfandel Red Blend 2023 750ml

#3 Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2025 | #71 James Suckling Top 100 Wines of the USA 2025

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck — 98 Points | Blending 76% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 7% Carignane, 2% Alicante Bouschet, and 1% Mataro from an estate vineyard in Dry Creek Valley purchased in 1972, the 2023 Lytton Springs exhibits initial chewiness that leads to fine tannins, with good heft and underlying acidity. Well-woven oak supports a moderately ripe, medium-bodied frame of structured elegance, aged in 100% air-dried American oak. Enjoy now through 2033.

Decanter — 96 Points | A much cooler growing season delayed harvest by about a month, resulting in greater restraint than the previous vintage. Fresh aromas of herbs from a bouquet garni mix with earthy tones and subtle sweet notes from baking spices. The fruit profile oscillates between ripe red and black berries, with a touch of plums and ripe cherries. Tannins are firm yet polished, with a soft creaminess to the palate. Balanced and enjoyable now, with many years to evolve.

Wine Spectator — 95 Points | Deeply structured and full of tension, this polished red displays a distinctive personality, offering bold blackberry flavors accented with savory anise, black pepper, and dark Asian spices. Ends with big but refined tannins. Drink now through 2035.

James Suckling — 95 Points | A lovely release with lots of freshness from a cooler vintage. Bright and perfumed aromas of red cherries, raspberry coulis, confit plums, licorice, and spice. Full-bodied with finely tuned tannins and vibrant, crunchy acidity.

Vinous — 95 Points | Powerfully aromatic and expressive from the jump. Explodes from the glass with dark blue fruit, lavender, and blood orange peel, framed by mocha-like richness and a wave of exotic spice. The texture is pure silk. Remarkable persistence and poise — clearly built for the long haul.

Winemaker Description

Nose of raspberry, pepper, licorice, and a hint of vanilla. Black cherry and plum on the palate with supple tannins, minerality, and present acidity. Long, layered finish with notes of garrigue and black tea.

• Producer: Ridge Vineyards
• Vineyard: Lytton Springs Estate, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
• Blend: 76% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 7% Carignane, 2% Alicante Bouschet, 1% Mataro
• Aging: 100% air-dried American oak
• Vintage: 2023
• Drink: Now through 2035+
• Format: 750ml