772 | Wine | Sonoma County, 86 or higher

"A fun glass of bubbles, with creamy vanilla and raspberry aromas that lead to appealing strawberry and spicy lemon flavors."

"An excellent wine from a challenging vintage, with aromas of black cherry and spice opening to rich wild berry, mineral and toasty sage flavors that wrap around a concentrated core of acidity and tannins."

"A festive bubbly, with floral cherry and lemon aromas and succulent cherry, red apple and spice flavors."

"Notably elegant and refined, this is polished at points, firm on the finish. The core black cherry and blackberry flavors are fresh and lively."

"Fun and festive, with floral raspberry and graham cracker aromas leading to crisp and succulent lemon and strawberry flavors. A reliable value in California bubbly."

"The 2011 Geyserville impresses for its silkiness and texture. Sweet dark berries, flowers and mint are some of the notes that take shape in the glass. The 2011 is a decidedly mid-weight, feminine style of Geyserville. Floral notes reappear on the finish, adding lift and vibrancy. The 2011 should drink well upon release and also age. To make the 2011, Ridge was especially selective and fewer parcels made it into the blend than normal, especially with the Petite Sirah."

"Bright yellow. Pungent aromas of grapefruit, lemon zest, saffron and mint, with an underpinning of smoky minerals. Dusty citrus and apple flavors are complemented by a sexy floral quality and enlivened by zesty minerality. Finishes with excellent clarity and stony thrust, the floral note repeating. This taut, dry, deeply concentrated chardonnay should age gracefully."

"The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve explodes from the glass with black fruit, grilled herbs, licorice, smoke and tar. The Grand Reserve reveals tons of energy and exceptional overall balance."

"Vivid yellow. Lively, spice-accented aromas of tangerine, melon and white flowers, with toasty lees and sweet butter accents adding depth. Offers an array of citrus fruit and spice flavors, with suave honeysuckle and brioche nuances emerging with air. Lingers impressively on the finish, which shows nervy orange pith and ginger character."

"Mocha, espresso and savory herbs add nuance and complexity as this dark wine gradually unfurls in the glass. I see terrific depth and richness here, but readers will have to be patient. There is a lot going on here."