2011 Ridge Zinfandel East Bench
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2011 Zinfandel East Bench (100% Zinfandel with 14.6% alcohol) was harvested during the third week of September, before the heavy rains of October. Alluring notes of wild brambleberries, boysenberries, spice and earth are found in this wine’s projected aromatic profile. There are tart acids (also found in many of these Ridge cuvees) in this medium-bodied effort that should drink nicely for 4-6 years. Tel. (408) 867-3233
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Pure structure takes center stage in the 2011 Zinfandel East Bench. A rich, intense wine, the 2011 is going to require at least another year or two for the tannins to start melting away. There is a lot to like here, but readers will need to be patient. Dark red cherries, plums, flowers, mint and licorice struggle to emerge in this powerhouse Zinfandel.
(made from fruit harvested between September 19 and 24; 14.6% alcohol): Glass-staining ruby. Aromas and flavors of raspberry, anise, black tea and candied violet. Juicy and precise on the palate, offering gently sweet red fruit flavors that take a darker turn with air. Fine-grained tannins build slowly and add shape to a long, broad and subtly smoky finish.
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.