772 | Wine | 91 to 95, 2011 | Page 2

"Pale gold. Suave, floral-accented aromas of candied orchard fruits, orange zest, white flowers and brioche. Pliant and broad on entry, then tighter in the middle, offering gently sweet pear and citrus fruit flavors and a touch of vanilla. Finishes sappy and very long, with lingering spiciness and a hint of anise. This wine delivers outstanding value."

"It reveals a deep ruby/purple color as well as copious notes of creme de cassis intermixed with hints of wood smoke and charcoal. Medium to full-bodied, juicy, succulent and sensual, it should drink nicely for 3-4 years." -Robert Parker

"The lush, ripe pit fruit; luscious citrus; and wafting floral perfume that characterized “the rest” of the material that will become this year’s Tradition cuvee here display additional intensity, accompanied by piquant nut oils, oyster liquor, and shrimp shell reduction, making for a deep, saliva-liberating savor. For all of its richness, this delivers ample refreshment, while evincing a remarkable sense of buoyancy. Look to have a wonderful time with this beauty over the next 3-4 years."

"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."

"An excellent bargain, this 100% Tempranillo (80-100-year old vines) was aged completely in stainless steel. Patrick Mata told me that the village from which it emerges has only 95 residents, all of whom are grape farmers! This may be the “bargain of the year” in my tastings. It boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as copious notes of black cherry jam, licorice, blackberries and subtle hints of earth, pepper and meat. Drink this medium to full-bodied, rich, layered red over the next 2-3 years." -Robert Parker

"The pure ripe plum and black cherry fruit joins spice and wilted rose notes for a complex, delicate mix of flavors, gaining on the finish."

"A gorgeous entry-level wine, the 2011 Etna Rosso is remarkably balanced and poised. Sweet herbs, tobacco, licorice, fennel and herbs emerge form this utterly gracious and compelling red. This is a great showing from the Rosso. The wine’s depth, balance and harmony are first-class all the way. Based on this showing, I can hardly wait to taste the other wines in the range!"

"Subtle and intense, with a pure, juicy core of blackberry and raspberry, offering spicy oak and floral notes. Gains on the long finish."