1988 Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

The cool coastal climate of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the limestone substrate of Monte Bello have produced twenty-seven vintages of distinctive Ridge chardonnay. In 1988, as in most years, we barrel-fermented and took the wine through a full malolactic. This year, for the first time, it was held on the fermentation lees for the ten months from harvest to bottling. This fine wine will develop more fully with a year or two in bottle, and has the structure to be layed down for five to eight years.

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 yeast submerged-cap fermentations, aging in small oak cooperage, and careful racking at each transfer to achieve clarity. Located above 2300 feet on Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains, our winery overlooks San Francisco Bay

Average Rating: 84.5

No. of Tasting Notes: 4

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