Expert Reviews – Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 93 Points | Made since 2001 from a number of Sonoma County vineyards, the 2023 Three Valleys blends 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% each Mataro and Alicante Bouschet from Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Valley, and Russian River Valley. Floral, it is complex and less rustic than usual, the vintage showing classic charm and elegance. Though it is one of Ridge’s largest production wines, it is made in the exact same way as all its others, in open top tanks with real oak and native fermentations. It’s meant to represent a vintage more than a location. A popular by-the-glass pour, order it when you see it.

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Generous and robust yet retains a sense of polish, with expressive raspberry and blueberry flavors highlighted by licorice and pepper, plus a whiff of dill as this builds toward fine-grained tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Mataro and Alicante Bouschet. Drink now through 2034.

James Suckling 93 Points | Aromas of confit cherries, licorice, blackberry bush, baking spices and violets. The palate is full-bodied with a rounded mouthfeel and firmly framed tannins that end in a lush and generous finish. Made from a blend of 71% zinfandel, 16% carignane, 9% petite sirah, 2% mataro and 2% alicante bouschet.

The Wine Advocate 91 Points | The 2023 Three Valleys is a blend of 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro and 2% Alicante Bouschet that matured for 12 months in 19% new air-dried American oak. It has layered aromas of wild berries, Italian plums, chargrilled meats, resinous herbs and lavender. The full-bodied palate offers highly concentrated flavors, though its light on its feet, with chalky tannins and vibrant acidity. It has a long, spicy finish.

Winemaker Description

Nose of toasty oak, strawberry jam, mixed berry pie, black tea and baking spice. Layered black and blue fruit on the palate with milk chocolate, cherry, garrigue and textured tannins on the finish.

Blend: 65% Zinfandel, 26% Petite Sirah, 5% Syrah, 4% Alicante Bouschet

Taking a look at the last 5 years, our Three Valleys has consistently been awarded scores of 92 points and above:

2022 Vintage – 94 Points, Decanter
2021 Vintage – 92 Points, Wine Spectator
2020 Vintage – 93 Points, Wine Spectator
2019 Vintage – 93 Points Wine Spectator