Even in California there ain't such a thing as an easy vintage these days, but there are wine growers at the top of their game and Ridge is certainly one of those.

The 2011 Zinfandel blends come in much reduced volumes and are the result of ruthless selection, giving delicious medium-bodied wines from ripe grapes with sensible alcohol levels and beautiful cool climate balance.

The 2012 Monte Bello will be one of the best since 2001 - also from a season difficult to manage and requiring a phenomenal amount of work but incredibly rewarding. Draper's team has a long track record of getting things just right and of giving superb value for money from some of the world's finest wines. Ridge continues as a benchmark producer. /CW

Offered subject to confirmation for shipment: Monte Bello autumn 2015; other wines autumn 2013