Ridge Zinfandel "East Bench" Dry Creek 2019

Based on 100% Zinfandel, the 2019 Zinfandel East Bench has a great perfume of red plums, wild strawberries, and flowery incense, with just hints of cigar and dried orange peel emerging with time in the glass. While it's not a blockbuster, it brings gorgeous intensity and richness in a medium-bodied, weightless, elegant package that delivers ripe tannins and notable acidity.

Fairly full in body and nicely fruited in a ripe yet very much alive style, the wine smells of blackberry with a light touch of peppery spice at the margins. It follows through well on the palate, and while its tannins get a tad gritty, they are no more than the wine can handle. It certainly could drink now, but we would counsel that a few years of age will help.