1985 Wine Creek Road Zinfandel

On 1982, when Bill Hambrecht and Fred Peterson purchased this vineyard on the hills overlooking Dry Creek Valley, there were few producing vines left. The one viable block, two acres of very old Zinfandel was saved. This full, rich wine was lightly fined with fresh egg whites to bring the tannins into balance. It should be soft enough to try at release, yet its structure, and the intensity imparted by the old vines, ensure that it will develop further if laid down for three or four years. PD (4/87)

Begun in 1959, Ridge was one of the first of today’s chateau-size California wineries-those that limit production to attempt 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 the 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 and main vineyards overlook San Francisco Bay.