1987 Bradford Mountain Merlot

This ranch includes two vineyards-Tarman, planted in 1974, and Hambrecht-Peterson, planted seven years later. Low yields and cool nights have produced our most intense merlot to date. In the selection process, small percentages of cabernet sauvignon and franc from the ranch were included for additional complexity. This superb wine was not fined, yet will be quite approachable by release. Full, soft tannins and very firm natural acidity ensure its continued development over the next ten years or more. PD (1/89)

Founded in 1959, Ridge was one of the first of today’s small, fine California wineries- limiting production to achieve the highest quality. From the beginning, close adherence to traditional winemaking techniques-including use of natural yeasts in extended fermentations and careful racking for clarity-have set Ridge apart. Located above 2300 feet on Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains, our winery and main vineyards overlook San Francisco Bay.