2014 Ridge Estate Chardonnay

Tasting note

Tropical notes of ripe pineapple, figs, and honeysuckle. Rich and oily texture. Full-bodied, with a nice acidity. Strong apple/pear fruit on an intense finish.

Description

Ridge produced its first Chardonnay in 1962 from mature vines planted in the late 1940s at the Monte Bello vineyard. Production never exceeded ten barrels, and Monte Bello Chardonnay was primarily sold to the winery. Several notable vintages, including 1973, '74, '79, and '84, demonstrated that the cool climate and limestone soils were well-suited to the varietal. In 1985, the old vines produced less than half a ton per hectare. The newer plantings on the "lower" vineyard were not yet cultivated as part of the Monte Bello estate, so the wine was called "Santa Cruz Mountains." The vines have long since been incorporated into the estate.