1997 Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
Ridge's 1997 Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains is giving everything it has today, with striking texture and all the complexity that develops with extended time in bottle. Honey, apricot jam, orange blossom, butter and spice open up in a Chardonnay endowed with striking textural depth and richness. Even with all of its intensity, the 1997 retains gorgeous freshness. The 1997 was made entirely from the fruit sourced from the Jimsomare Ranch, which lies on the lower slopes of Monte Bello. Ridge took control over farming of the ranch in 1996. The first Jimsomare Chardonnay that was labeled 'Monte Bello' was the 1999. Interestingly, the Ridge Chardonnays are almost always above 14% in alcohol, while the flagship Monte Bello has only crossed that threshold once in its entire history.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Vibrant, perfumed aromas of lemon, quince and ginger; one can smell the wine acidity. Then surprisingly smooth in the mouth, with lovely estery richness. Finishes with notes of citrus skin, baked bread and spicy oak.
About the producer
Best known for its iconic Monte Bello, Ridge Vineyards makes some of California’s finest wines – particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Long a pioneer of sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking, Ridge makes an extensive range from Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains.