I’m getting citrus and fruity notes from this one. I am surprised I like this. It has a light body and is easy to drink. Yay — 2 years ago
Still one of my favorite Zins. — 3 years ago
This bottle just didn’t meet my expectations. Hoping my other Oakville Ranch 2012’s will show better than this one. — 5 years ago
The Easter 🐰 told me I might be a bit late on opening this one. They lied. — 7 years ago
Ridge Vineyards – Zinfandel – 2023
Benito Dusi Ranch – Paso Robles – USA 🇺🇸
Overview
An extraordinary single-vineyard Zinfandel from one of the most historic and consistent sites in Paso Robles. The 2023 vintage delivers depth, purity, and that unmistakable Dusi Ranch character—old-vine concentration wrapped in Ridge’s signature balance and finesse. This bottling remains one of the benchmark Zinfandels in California.
Aromas & Flavors
Blackberry compote, ripe plum, and raspberry preserve with accents of warm spice, licorice, dried herbs, and a touch of cracked pepper. Subtle cocoa and cedar from restrained oak play in the background.
Mouthfeel
Full-bodied and richly textured, yet never heavy. Juicy acidity energizes the palate while fine, structured tannins keep everything focused. Long, plush, and satisfyingly powerful.
Food Pairings
BBQ ribs, grilled lamb chops, wood-fired pizza, smoky brisket, or aged Gouda.
Verdict
A stellar expression of old-vine Paso Robles Zinfandel, opulent, balanced, and deeply flavorful. A true standout in Ridge’s portfolio.
Did You Know?
The Dusi family has farmed this vineyard for generations, and Ridge has made wine from the site since 1967. These old vines consistently produce some of the most character-rich Zinfandel in the state, making Benito Dusi one of Ridge’s most iconic single-vineyard bottlings.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
This sits at the very top of my favorite Zinfandels, extraordinary from start to finish, and a reminder of why Ridge continues to define the category. — 7 months ago
Normally don’t like California Cab too much, way too sweet . But this one is quiet balanced & drinking nicely! — 5 years ago
Abe’s wines are often hit or miss for me. This one was absolutely, 100% a hit. Singing. — 8 years ago
Lemon gold color with aromas of stone and tropical fruits with citrus, sweet floral and complex spice, no MLF. On the palate flavors of ripe melon, pineapple, apricot and honeysuckle notes with lemon zest and biscuit notes, delicate, complex and well balanced, big and full Chardonnay. Long finish, savory, ending with mineral tones and fresh finish. Will age well. Outstanding! While I usually do not decant whites, this one will benefit to breathe a bit! — 10 months ago
One of the best as of late. Eggplant parm, pared perfectly. — 3 years ago

Good one #earthy and fruity, 22month anniversary — 3 years ago
Not usually a cab fan but this one stood out at a wine festival with over 800 to try! — 7 years ago
This is a wonderful wine - one of the best field blends I’ve had, really. There’s an impression of wild raspberries and boysenberries on the front end, backed by a layer of mildly peppery spice, and presented in a medium-bodied frame. The tannins are mostly resolved and the finish is clean and just a touch sweet. This was ready to go with minimal air.
This is only my second or third Bucklin and I’m becoming a big fan. — 8 years ago
One of the best California Chards that I’ve tasted. Opens with a subtle minerality that softens to a rich fruit fullness of lemongrass and cardamom that is perfectly accented by the mild French oak, maybe up to 50% new. This is a wine that seems to truly express its terroir ... I need to get more of this!!! — 8 years ago
Bobbi Jo Broxson
One of my favorite Segehesios — 3 months ago