1984 Monte Bello Chardonnay

1984 produced excellent quality but relatively low yields in the three small Chardonnay vineyards on Monte Bello Ridge. The wine completed a full malolactic fermentation and was aged in small oak cooperage. The varietal fruit is more evident than usual while the new oak aging seems to have contributed complexity and softened the wine. It should be quite enjoyable when released next spring.

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 has set Ridge apart. This approach determines our style and includes the use of natural yeasts in extended, submerged-cap fermentations, aging in small oak cooperage, and careful racking at every transfer to achieve clarity. Located above 2300 feet on Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains, our winery overlooks San Francisco Bay.

The Wine Advocate (May 2018): 93 Points. “In 1949, retired theologian William Short planted a few acres of Chardonnay on Monte Bello ridge, and these vines were the source of Ridge’s Monte Bello Chardonnay between 1962 and 1984. The last vintage produced from these old vines, the 1984 Chardonnay Monte Bello is still drinking well today, wafting from the glass with notes of crisp yellow orchard fruit, crushed chalk and subtle notions of salted caramel. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied and still amazingly structured, with tensile acids, intense concentration and a chewy, chalky finish. It’s fully mature but certainly in no danger of imminent decline. Interestingly, this wine would have been produced from a heritage selection of Chardonnay, likely either Mount Eden or Wente, whereas subsequent vintages were produced from California Clone 4 (a more generously yielding clone that retains considerable acidity at high sugars), something that’s only changing today as Ridge gradually replants.” – William Kelley

Average Rating: 94.5

No. of Tasting Notes: 2

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