1999 Nervo Zinfandel

Advance Tasting Program members may recall that there was no 1998 Nervo. In that late year, the crop level on these old vines—while not excessive—was too heavy to mature flavors sufficiently. In this equally late year we thinned rigorously, and delayed picking until we were convinced the grapes were fully ripe. Did I say “fully”? Old North block came in at 29.5° Brix, Old South at almost 29°. The small amount from St. George block was over 30°. The hint of residual sugar is so well-integrated that “late picked” seems a more accurate description than “late harvest” for this excellent, exotic wine, which will be at its best over the next four to five years.

Since 1962, Ridge has championed single-vineyard winemaking, searching California for those rare sites where climate, soil, and varietal are ideally matched. Using traditional methods, we strive for exceptional wines from distinctive fruit.

Average Rating: 90.4

No. of Tasting Notes: 10

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