2001 Llewelyn Zinfandel

This is our second vintage from the mixed-varietal Llewelyn vineyard on Dutcher Creek Road in the westernmost hills of the Alexander Valley viticultural area. To maximize the vineyard’s distinctive character, we reduced yields by severe pruning, and again, later, by thinning the clusters. The oldest block, planted in 1913 to a vineyard blend of zinfandel and carignane, proved most intense and complex. After a submerged-cap fermentation on the naturallyoccurring yeasts and a natural malolactic fermentation, this well-structured wine was racked to twoyear- old american oak barrels. In the fall, we transferred sixteen percent of the wine to new oak, further complementing the intense fruit. Enjoyable now, this lovely zinfandel will be at its best over the next five to seven years.

Since 1962, Ridge has championed single-vineyard winemaking, exploring California in search of those rare sites where climate, soil, and varietal are ideally matched. Our aim is to guide the natural process; using traditional methods and minimal handling, we strive to produce the highest quality wines from superior and distinctive fruit.

Average Rating: 88.9

No. of Tasting Notes: 14

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