1991 Beatty Zinfandel

Though Howell Mountain is on the dry side of Napa Valley, and the open, chaparral-covered slopes seem to bake in the August sun, this is a cool microclimate. With a late start and full crop in ’91, these grapes did not ripen completely until the first week of November. Anticipating firm tannins, we used small, five-ton fermentors; a third of the grapes in each tank were whole clusters. This approach adds a floral, bright fruit character, and petite sirah contributes spice and structure. A lively pleasant zinfandel, it will be enjoyable when released, developing over the next five years. PD (4/93)

30 years ago, Ridge made its first Monte Bello, and two years later its first zinfandel. We searched California for other great vineyards where climate, soil, and varietal are perfectly matched. To bring the distinctive character of each vineyard to the wine, we use the minimal handling typical of traditional winemaking. We are proud that our three decades are an integral part of California’s winemaking history.

Average Rating: 75.5

No. of Tasting Notes: 2

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