1997 Pagani Mataro

Like the alicante on this ranch, the mataro was caught by a spring frost that cut quantities dramatically in a year when all our other vineyards were up by an average of fifteen percent. In fermentation, we allowed the cap of skins to float (instead of holding them submerged as we usually do with zinfandel) to give us better control over color and tannin extraction. In aging, new oak was held to twelve percent (about half that used in our other wines) thus permitting the varietal to dominate, as it does in the better French mourvèdres. Floral, with rich fruit and a hint of tar, this lively, elegant mataro will be at its best over the next five 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.

Average Rating: 90.4

No. of Tasting Notes: 10

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