2001 Ridge Zinfandel Pagani Ranch
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Tasting notes
(includes 8% alicante bouschet and 4% petite sirah) Full ruby-red. Somewhat porty aromas of roasted red berries, spicecake, pepper and woodsmoke. Mellow, superripe flavors of baked red fruits and pepper. Superripe and lush but bright, with strong, integrated acidity. Very southern in character, yet with very good vinosity. Rather powerful zinfandel, lifted by notes of clove and pepper. Most of these vines are more than 100 years of age.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The (15% alcohol) 2001 Zinfandel Pagani Ranch (88% Zinfandel and 12% Alicante Bouchet) is a powerful effort. It reveals surprisingly good acidity for a wine of this size, as well as deep, chewy, Amarone-like raisiny, raspberry and cherry flavors intermixed with hints of prunes and earth. A touch of asphalt also makes an appearance in this full-bodied, chunky 2001. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Tel. (408) 867-3233
About the producer
Best known for its iconic Monte Bello, Ridge Vineyards makes some of California’s finest wines – particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Long a pioneer of sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking, Ridge makes an extensive range from Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains.