Ritual has been a constantly evolving wine for us: the diverse varietals, vineyard sources and their micro-climates and soil types, always provide exciting flavor, textural and aromatic possibilities. The result is a wine that, therefore, expresses much more than one terroir or one varietal imprint, but rather it greatly reflects the vintage and growing season. The warmth and steady nature of 2014 provided Ritual with a beautiful backbone and tons of juicy, rich, sexy fruit. We think this will at once be the Ritual with the most upfront appeal as well as the Ritual that is the most ageworthy. Aromatics of raspberry confiture, white pepper, Chinese five-spice, lavender and white flowers fill the glass, leading to a full, dense, layered palate with tons of length.
Well-built, stylish and loaded with personality. Aromas of smoky peppered beef lead to complex, appealingly gamy flavors of boysenberry, grilled herb and espresso. The tannins are big but ripe on the finish. Mourvèdre, Grenache, Syrah, Carignane and Petite Sirah. Drink now through 2027.
