WTN: Guy Ritchie

[David M. Bueker]

• 2020 Ramey Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard - USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley (6/26/2026)
  Ritchie Vineyard is a tough one for me, but I wanted to see what would happen with Ramey. It’s still too much for my taste, though on the second night it was leaner and for me more enjoyable. First impressions were that it was recognizable as Ramey but richer/ thicker than the Hyde or Rochioli single vineyard wines. A good wine yes, but not my thing.
• 2016 Failla Syrah Estate Vineyard - USA, California, Sonoma County, Fort Ross - Seaview (6/25/2026)
  This was really good young. It’s better with several more years of age. There’s now a meaty/savory streak to complement the deep fruit. It’s structured, but not painful. Feels like drink now to five years from now. Thoroughly enjoyable.

[Jenise]

Same on the Ritchie chardonnay fruit. The Failla sounds great, though I've only had pinot and chardonnay from them (of which my meager experiences with both highly favor the chard over the pinot). Because of that I probably wouldn't go out of my way to try the Syrah.

[David M. Bueker]

Syrah is my favorite thing he makes.