California Zinfandel is Getting its Groove Back
Wine Enthusiast
July 2025
Wine Enthusiast’s newest article on Zinfandel describes how the ripe and jammy California Zinfandels of the past are giving way to a more elegant, balanced style.
“When the state’s modern wine industry took off in the 1970s, Zinfandel enjoyed distinct advantages. Not only did its jammy profile attract American consumers seeking ripe flavors, but many wines came from old-vine vineyards, which provided a romantic connection to the Golden State’s almost forgotten, pre-Prohibition wine history…But as consumer tastes are shifting toward more elegant, less alcoholic wines, so is a lot of Zinfandel.” -Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast
The article features two RIDGE wines among their recommendations for must-try Zinfandels:
Field Blends
2022 Lytton Springs
96 Points + Cellar Selection
“The densely packed nose of this legendary old vine field blend of Zin, Petite Sirah, Carignane, and Alicante gives aromas of crushed blackberry, purple flowers and rich earthy spices, while the palate brings black cherry, olive and licorice flavors in a framework of opulent tannin that will age effortlessly for more than a decade.” — T.R.C.
Old Vine
2021 Benito Dusi Zinfandel*
92 Points
“This is a hedonistic style of Zin, starting with oak-soaked aromas of creamy black cherry, clove and vanilla on the nose. Roasted and stewed fruit flavors are surrounded by woodspice on the ripe palate, which would make an excellent barbecue wine.” — M.K.
*The 2021 vintage of Benito Dusi Zinfandel is sold out. The new 2023 vintage is now available.
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