The 2023 Ridge Vineyards Lytton Springs is a field blend of 76% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 7% Carignane, 2% Alicante Bouschet, and 1% Mataro. The wine explodes from the glass with dark blue fruit, lavender and blood orange peel, framed by mocha-like richness and a wave of exotic spice. Bright and perfumed aromas of red cherries, raspberry coulis, confit plums, licorice and spice combine with great potpourri notes, milk chocolate, fresh herbs and shades of ripe strawberry. The palate is full-bodied with finely tuned tannins and vibrant, crunchy acidity. Smooth and silky with a refined mouthfeel and a great sense of tension and salinity running through the core of red and dark fruits. Every bit as gorgeous as the 2022, and slightly less burly and more mineral-driven, with a late and prolonged harvest due to consistently cool weather throughout the growing season. Named Wine Spectator's #3 Wine of the Year in 2025.