Perhaps the best value in Ridge's Zinfandel portfolio is the 1998 Sonoma Station. A blend of 75% Zinfandel, 11% Carignan, 9% Alicante, and 5% Petite Sirah that achieved 13.7% alcohol, this peppery, dried herb, red and black currant-scented and flavored wine is medium-bodied, with abundant levels of berry fruit, good purity, and a soft, straightforward, fleshy character similar to an impeccably made French Cotes du Rhone. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. Tel. (408) 867-3233