Shannon Ridge produces fine wines at fair prices. All their fruit is sustainability farmed, so you can enjoy each bottle knowing you’ve done right by our planet. Here’s our tasting panel’s take on a selection of their current releases.

Grape(s): Zinfandel

Special Designation: Two Bud

Region: Lake County

Year: 2007

Price: 25-30

Review:

Aromas of blackberries and cherries are accented by suggestions of pepper and vanilla on the nose. Flavors of blackberry and cherry dominate the palate, rounded out by notes of pepper, anise, and vanilla. A fairly smooth, fruit driven wine that’s not too spicy or peppery, fans of more reserved Zins will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 89

Character: red fruit, smooth mouthfeel, light tannins

 

Grape(s): Zinfandel

Special Designation: Ranch Collection

Region: Lake County

Year: 2009

Price: 15-20

Review:

Aromas of red berries with accents of vanilla, sweet spice, and pepper can be found on the nose. Flavors of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry meld with notes of creamy oak and spice. A more reserved Zin, with jammy fruit, it’s for people that like brighter fruit flavors and more subtle spice.

Rating: 88

Character: red fruit, fairly smooth mouthfeel, light tannins


Grape(s): Petite Sirah

Special Designation: Ranch Collection

Region: Lake County

Year: 2009

Price: 20-25

Review:

A bouquet of blueberries, blackberries, vanilla, sweet spice, and pie crust greets the senses. A sip reveals flavors of blueberry and boysenberry that unfold into notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of oak. A rich wine, with a solid structure, but it’s still supple and has some very nice layers. It is perfect for fans of smooth Petite Sirah.

Rating: 90

Character: dark fruit, rich mouthfeel, supple mouthfeel

 

 

Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon

Special Designation: Ranch Collection

Region: Lake County

Year: 2009

Price: 15-20

Review:

Aromatics of blackberries, cherries, currants, and anise rise from a glass. Flavors of blackberry, currants, and cherry emerge on the palate with accents of spice and vanilla. An approachable wine, with balanced tannins, it’s for fans of mellow Cabs.

Rating: 89

Character: dark fruit, smooth mouthfeel, supple tannins


Grape(s): Chardonnay

Special Designation: Ranch Collection

Region: Lake County

Year: 2010

Price: 20-25

Review:

Notes of pear, pineapple, and mango mingle together on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of pear, apple, vanilla, and caramel. The wine is somewhat creamy but not too oaky and has a nice acidity. It’s very approachable and makes a fine aperitif.

Rating: 88

Character: lush fruit, balanced acidity, round but still bright mouthfeel


Grape(s): Sauvignon Blanc

Special Designation: Ranch Collection

Region: Lake County

Year: 2010

Price: 15-20

Review:

On the nose, aromas of melon, citrus fruits, and tropical notes can be discovered. With a sip, flavors of lime, grapefruit, guava, and melon come forth with a background of fresh minerals. The wine is round, but still bright with acidity, and has a dusty backbone, making it ideal of those who enjoy a minerally Sauvignon Blanc.

Rating: 87

Character: bright fruit, crisp acidity, clean mouthfeel