Ridge Lytton Springs Zinfandel

Budbreak was early, and mild spring weather contributed to a uniformif moderateset. Summer temperatures were warm, but never extreme. In mid-August, three weeks before we typically harvest, our interns began to practice the critical art of sampling. To our surprise, sugars were already up; more important, the grapes had developed full flavor. Starting immediately, we picked non-stop, finishing by Labor Daywhen we normally start. No sooner were the grapes in than temperatures soared. Natural fermentations began quickly. Color and tannin extracted so easily that we cut circulation of juice over cap, and pressed many tanks before dryness. After a natural malolactic, the wine aged for thirteen months in airdried american oak barrels. Enjoyable as a young wine, this excellent zinfandel will continue to develop in complexity over the next ten years. JO/PD (10/05)