1997 Paso Robles Zinfandel

After two years of very low yields, California produced a large 1997 vintage. For Ridge, the exception was Dusi Ranch, where tonnage was again modest. What the ranch did have in common with other zinfandel vineyards was that it ripened all at once. The grapes were exceedingly ripe, the wine is unusually full, rich and exotic. For additional structure we included a small amount of petite sirah, and for greater definition, increased the proportion of new oak. Firm acidity contributes to the complexity of this excellent late-picked zinfandel. Like our previous twenty-two vintages of Paso Robles, it will be most appealing as a young wine.

Since 1962, Ridge has championed single-vineyard winemaking, searching for great vineyards where climate, soil, and varietal are ideally matched. Using traditional methods and minimal handling, we strive to produce wines that reflect their site.

Average Rating: 89.3

No. of Tasting Notes: 7

View this wine on CellarTracker

See all food pairing recipes we have created specifically for this wine.