Helena Ranch

Spottswoode

Family Estate Grown St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

2018 vintage. Last tasted 1.31.25 (9.5) and 10.27.23 (9.4). Decanted and tasted after 1.25 hours. That quiet, yet confident, Spottswoode style...enduring and imprinting the palate gently. 12.5.25. — 14 days ago

Andrew, Ted and 11 others liked this

Crocker & Starr

St. Helena Cabernet Franc 2016

2016. 100% Cab Franc. Wine tasting 11/25. — 20 days ago

Ridge Vineyards

Benito Dusi Ranch Paso Robles Zinfandel 2023

Ridge Vineyards – Zinfandel – 2023
Benito Dusi Ranch – Paso Robles – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
An extraordinary single-vineyard Zinfandel from one of the most historic and consistent sites in Paso Robles. The 2023 vintage delivers depth, purity, and that unmistakable Dusi Ranch character—old-vine concentration wrapped in Ridge’s signature balance and finesse. This bottling remains one of the benchmark Zinfandels in California.

Aromas & Flavors
Blackberry compote, ripe plum, and raspberry preserve with accents of warm spice, licorice, dried herbs, and a touch of cracked pepper. Subtle cocoa and cedar from restrained oak play in the background.

Mouthfeel
Full-bodied and richly textured, yet never heavy. Juicy acidity energizes the palate while fine, structured tannins keep everything focused. Long, plush, and satisfyingly powerful.

Food Pairings
BBQ ribs, grilled lamb chops, wood-fired pizza, smoky brisket, or aged Gouda.

Verdict
A stellar expression of old-vine Paso Robles Zinfandel, opulent, balanced, and deeply flavorful. A true standout in Ridge’s portfolio.

Did You Know?
The Dusi family has farmed this vineyard for generations, and Ridge has made wine from the site since 1967. These old vines consistently produce some of the most character-rich Zinfandel in the state, making Benito Dusi one of Ridge’s most iconic single-vineyard bottlings.

🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
This sits at the very top of my favorite Zinfandels, extraordinary from start to finish, and a reminder of why Ridge continues to define the category.
— a month ago

Dave, Bob and 9 others liked this
Douglas Braun

Douglas Braun Influencer Badge

Amazing Vineyard an family which were Paso Robles before Paso Robles
Tom Casagrande

Tom Casagrande Influencer Badge

Nice write-up. Always one of my favorites of the Ridge stable.

Hall Wines

Jack's Masterpiece Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Lovely. Beautiful deep aromas on the nose. Eucalyptus and brambly blue fruit. Some menthal. Velvety and rustic at the same time. Fan — 13 days ago

Pooneet liked this

Ridge Vineyards

Buchignani Ranch Carignane 2021

Juicy and with a touch of sweetness. This was very pleasant and paired well with cheese. — 19 days ago

Tom liked this

Nickel & Nickel

State Ranch Yountville Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

Drinking the 2017 in 2025. Fruit forward bouquet with earthy hints on the finish. Thin legs that quickly dissipate. Light flavors with sweet ripe fruit notes and light tannins. Smooth finish. — 21 days ago

Corison

St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

First experience here. Really enjoyable, medium-minus body. More red fruits than blue/black. — 24 days ago

Paul, Tom and 3 others liked this

Realm Cellars

Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Excellent with great nose — 11 days ago

Jan and Joe liked this

Vine Hill Ranch

Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

Spectacular, full-bodied, and intense, yet silky smooth. Drinking well now, but plenty of time left. Dark chocolate, dark cherries, cassis, oregano and other herbs. Decanted for about four hours. — 6 days ago

Kistler

Dutton Ranch Chardonnay 2016

Tasting great. Big, bold, some butter, but a ton of tropical fruit, lemon, peach, some stones. Not typically my style but I’m enjoying this 9 year old version. — a month ago

Tom, Ira and 1 other liked this