1997 Jimsomare Zinfandel

With the exception of a few remnant acres of nineteenth-century vines on Monte Bello Ridge, all our zinfandels are from the moderately warmer regions -Sonoma, Napa, and Paso Robles. Though ideal for Bordeaux varieties, as well as chardonnay and pinot noir, the Santa Cruz Mountains are too cool to consistently produce well-ripened zinfandel with good sugar-to-acid balance. The fine spring and long growing season of 1997 resulted in high sugars, but acid levels were outrageous, requiring moderation. This earthy, exotic zinfandel—full, yet somewhat rough—needs a year to begin to soften. It will be at its best over the next five to seven years.

Since 1962, Ridge has championed single-vineyard winemaking, searching California for those rare vineyards where climate, soil, and varietal are ideally matched. Fine wine, when made traditionally, is the result of a natural process. Ridge’s aim is to implement that process; using traditional methods and minimal handling, we strive to produce exceptional wines from superior and distinctive fruit.

The Wine Advocate (May 2018): 92 Points. “The 1997 Zinfandel Jimsomare is fully mature, revealing aromas of red fruits, dark chocolate, spice and subtle cedar. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied, rich and savory, with supple, melting tannins and good balancing acidity. At age 21, this Zinfandel has burned through its baby fat and is revealing plenty of tertiary nuance to complement its sweet fruit, but it’s in no danger of imminent decline.” – William Kelley

Average Rating: 89.4

No. of Tasting Notes: 8

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