2021 Ridge - Carignane Sandy Lane
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Tasting notes
The 2021 Carignane Sandy Lane is beautifully layered on the nose, exuding aromas of black cherries, blueberries, sweet tobacco and turned earth. The palate is lush, seamless and beautifully lifted, finishing with a fragrant, lifted energy and succulent, refreshing acidity. This is drinking exceptionally well already and will likely develop additional nuance for the next 5-7 years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
All varietal from the Contra Costa County region of California, the 2021 Carignane Sandy Lane is a rock-solid expression of the variety and has pure, classy notes of red and black berry fruits interwoven with peppery herbs, violets, and candied orange. I love its purity of fruit, it has a supple, elegant mouthfeel, nicely integrated acidity, and the ripe yet always firmer tannins of the variety. You don't see Carignan done on its own in California (or at all, really), and this is one well worth seeking out.
The 2021 Carignane Sandy Lane is supple, juicy and wonderfully delicious. All of the exuberance of Contra Costa County comes through in a racy, forward Carignagne packed with bright red/purplish fruit. Spice, tobacco and dried flowers add nuance, punctuated by bright saline notes that lend energy as well as complexity. The 2021 is such an inviting wine.
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.