Ridge Vineyards was founded in 1959 when three Stanford Research Institute engineers bought an abandoned winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The vineyards had been planted in the late 19th century by a San Francisco physician who produced his first vintage in the original winery, called Monte Bello, in 1892. The first Ridge vintage was in 1962. John Olney is Head Winemaker at Ridge.
This Hooker Creek (Bedrock) vineyard is planted along Hooker Creek, north of the town of Glen Ellen in Sonoma Valley. The section of the vineyard Ridge receives fruit from was planted in 1888.
Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. 96% Zinfandel, 2% Alicante Bouschet and 2% Petite Sirah. Sublime nose of red fruits, anise and pepper. Medium body with medium acidity. Black cherry, plums and earth on the palate. Nice length on the finish. Soft, supple and approachable. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 91 points.
Ridge has been defined by their Zin program for as long as I can remember and in recent years these wines have soared to new heights.
The entire Ridge lineup is available at the winery and for the most part at retail as well. Exceptional wines that are fairly priced, well crafted and easy to find. Everyone is always looking for the latest and greatest when it comes to wine. Sometimes it pays to stick with the tried and true. There is so much to like here.