1996 York Creek Zinfandel

Color: Deep ruby
Nose: Blueberry, ripe cherry, red fruits, briar, and green peppercorn segue gradually into caramel/toffee, offset by York Creek’s characteristic black pepper spice and hints of ground coriander.
Palate: Cherry fruit, briar, and black pepper follow through from the nose. Good structure, chalky tannins; a lingering, complex finish. Needs time.

This is the twenty-sixth year in which Ridge has made zinfandel from York Creek, high on Spring Mountain above Napa Valley. Sixty percent of this wine comes from the thirty-year-old vines on the Race Track block —named for the graceful oval trotting track that cuts through the vineyard. The rest is from younger vines above the Mill site, and higher up on Burger and Kite Hills. As in most years, the fruit is lovely and intense; petite sirah adds depth of color and further richness. This is one of the most delicious zinfandels we have ever made from York Creek. Though tannins are firm, the wine is very appealing now, and will be most enjoyable over the next five years. PD(1/98)

Since 1962, Ridge has championed single-vineyards winemaking, exploring California in search of great vineyards where climate, soil, and varietal are ideally matched. Ridge’s aim is to implement the natural process; using traditional methods and minimal handling we strive to produce the exceptional wines from superior and distinctive fruit. For information on the wines or visitng us at our Monte Bello (Santa Cruz Mountains) or Lytton Springs (Sonoma County) Wineries, call (408-867-3233)

Average Rating: 90

No. of Tasting Notes: 4

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