This wine (95% Zinfandel and 5% Petite Sirah with 14.6% alcohol) boasts a deep saturated ruby/purple color (among the darkest of the Ridge offerings), and subtle aromatics (primarily earth intermixed with black raspberries, pepper, and licorice). This medium to full-bodied, spicy Zinfandel appears to possess a firm structure and ageability, but it does not have the underlying depth to warrant cellaring beyond 4-5 years.
This is an excellent, nearly outstanding Zinfandel that possesses a certain firmness and structured feel (particularly when compared to the 1995s, 1994s, and 1993s). Because of the definition and angularity, it would be natural for readers to think this wine requires cellaring. My instincts and experience suggest this Zinfandel needs to be drunk in their exuberant youth - over the next 4-5 years.
Ridge has produced a fine series of 1996 Zinfandels. They reveal the vintage's rich, high alcohol personality, and forward, immediately drinkable style. I do not believe the 1996 vintage will age more than 5-6 years, despite the high alcohol. The tiny Zinfandel crop resulted in concentrated wines, but they are not as exceptionally deep as one might have expected given the small yields.
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