Wines Sonoma Valley Ridge Vineyards - Pagani Ranch Zinfandel - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Ridge Vineyards' 2019 Pagani Ranch Zinfandel stands as a quintessential expression of Sonoma Valley's historic old-vine vineyards. Crafted predominantly from Zinfandel, this cuvée also typically features small portions of Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet, contributing structure and depth. The 2019 vintage benefited from a favourable growing season with moderate temperatures, allowing grapes to achieve ideal ripeness while retaining vibrant acidity. The Pagani Ranch, planted in the late 19th century, is renowned for its gnarled, dry-farmed vines rooted in volcanic and alluvial soils, imbuing the wine with both concentration and a distinctive mineral character. Winemaking at Ridge is meticulous yet minimally interventionist, employing native yeast fermentation and ageing in American oak, which imparts subtle spice and harmony without masking the fruit’s purity.

Sonoma Valley, where Pagani Ranch is located, boasts a rich viticultural heritage, often considered the birthplace of California’s fine wine movement. The region's Mediterranean climate, deeply influenced by cool breezes from the Pacific Ocean, ensures temperate daytime warmth and refreshing nocturnal moisture. These conditions help Zinfandel thrive, providing full-bodied ripeness alongside vibrant acidity. The valley's combination of diverse volcanic and loamy soils further enhances the complexity and ageing potential of wines produced here, fostering a balance between power and finesse that has made Sonoma Zinfandel world-renowned.

This robust and generous red pairs beautifully with hearty, savoury dishes. For a classic American touch, serve alongside barbecued ribs glazed with sweet-spicy sauce or grilled sausages with caramelised onions. Italian influences in Sonoma’s history inspire matches with osso buco or aubergine parmigiana, dishes whose richness is enlivened by the wine’s fresh acidity and black fruit notes. Locally sourced lamb, roasted with rosemary, also complements the Zinfandel's spicy undertones and plush texture.

For optimal enjoyment, decanting for 30–60 minutes allows the wine’s layers of brambly fruit, peppery spice, and subtle oak to unfold. Serve at 16–18°C to preserve the balance between fruit aromatics and supple tannins. This Zinfandel will evolve gracefully over 5–7 years, but its generous character is already a delight.