Raspberry, fig with notes of vanilla on the nose. Flavours of plum and black olive give way to well coated tannins and black olive in the lingering finish. The growing season at this hilltop vineyard began favourably with mild spring weather. Thanks to steady, warm weather throughout August, all seven parcels were ready to pick by early September. After fermenting each separately, we chose six for their exuberant fruit, elegant tannins and balanced acidity. Enjoyable upon release this exemplary zinfandel will evolve over six to seven years. Ridge has made the East Bench as a single vineyard wine since 2006, one of the few Ridge zinfandels that is 100% zinfandel. The vineyard sits high atop the bench land that overlooks Dry Creek Valley from the east. 100% Zinfandel Organically Grown. 94 Points (Editors Choice) Wine Enthusiast, 93 Points Jeb Dunnuck, 93 Points Wine & Spirits, 92 Points Wine Spectator, 92 Points Anthony Dias Blue, Blue Lifestyle, 91 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, 91 Points Erin Brooks, The Wine Advocate.