2005 Ridge California Lytton Springs Zinfandel

Take a sip. It demands another. And another. The 2005 Lytton Springs Zinfandel from the Ridge estate is one of the best in recent memory. Rich and opulent, laden with sweet spices, it has an elegance that few Zins achieve. Terrific with food, it can sidle up to just about anything wintry -- roast duck or game hen, stews or braised meats, ribs and chops, even a hearty soup such as pasta e fagioli.

Quick swirl

Region: Sonoma

Price: $30 to $34

Style: Ripe and lush, textbook Zinfandel

Food it goes with: Just about anything wintry -- roast birds, stews, braised meat, pasta e fagioli, ribs.

Where you find it: Available at fine wine shops and retailers and online from www.ridge wine.com.

--S. Irene Virbila