The 2021 Ridge Zinfandel Pagani Ranch is a Zinfandel-based red wine from Sonoma, California. Crafted by the Ridge winery, this vintage showcases the varietal’s classic characteristics with a 14.6% alcohol content and a cork closure.
Vinous reviewer Antonio Galloni awarded this wine a stellar 95 points, describing it as "a wine of tremendous stature" that is "vertical and composed in bearing." Galloni noted the wine's "mesmerizing range of red/purplish fruit, spice, cedar, new leather, tobacco, mocha, and dried flowers," highlighting its complexity and depth. He also mentioned that the wine is somewhat reserved at present, suggesting it may benefit from additional aging.
Wine Enthusiast's Jim Gordon gave the wine 94 points, praising its "vivid, focused raspberries and red currants" on the nose and a palate filled with "cooked strawberries and red plums." Gordon also pointed out the "light toasty, oaky accents of vanilla and chocolate," which add layers of interest to the wine. He recommended enjoying this well-balanced and elegant wine through 2033.
Wine Spectator also rated the wine highly, with a score of 93 points. Their review described the wine as "potent at the core" while maintaining "a sense of refinement." The publication noted its "multilayered flavors of black cherry, fruitcake spices, and licorice" that build towards "fine-grained tannins." Wine Spectator suggests that the wine is drinkable now and will continue to be enjoyable through 2031, with 7,300 cases produced.
Jeb Dunnuck reviewed the wine on jebdunnuck.com and also awarded it 94 points. Dunnuck highlighted the blend composition of 90% Zinfandel, 5% Petite Sirah, and 5% Alicante Bouschet. He noted its "textbook Zinfandel sweet red and black plum, sandalwood, cigar, and candied orange-driven aromatics," along with a "beautifully layered, textured style on the palate." He praised the wine for its "ripe, polished tannins" and "pure, layered, complex style," emphasizing its overall balance and appeal.
In summary, the 2021 Ridge Zinfandel Pagani Ranch has received excellent reviews, with scores ranging from 93 to 95 points. It is celebrated for its complexity, balance, and refinement, making it a noteworthy choice for Zinfandel enthusiasts.