Ridge Vineyards

Tried four wines with Eric Baugher, winemaker at Ridge Vineyards. First was their 2007 Santa Cruz Chardonnay. This wine has great balance and nice acidity. The grapes were grown in limestone and that really shows through on the finish. This wine needs time to mellow.

Next we had the 2006 East Bench Zinfandel. This wine is 100% Zinfandel, and you know it is right from the nose to the finish. This wine screams Zin without being over the the top; it is reserved and well-made in keeping with the Ridge style.

Then came the 2007 Lytton Springs. Fluctuating aromas lead to a structured wine that would be awesome with a grilled ribeye. Oh baby.

Finally we had the 2006 Monte Bello. Oak hits you in the face, good old American oak. The wine is a rich purple that almost reflects your desire to dive in. Cassis flavor is layered with dark fruits and toast - did I mention the oak , good old American oak, that comes back on the supple finish? I put a half glass off to the side and found it today. Wow, what great stuff. A Wine Guy Favorite.