Exceptional Red

Ridge 2011 Sonoma Three Valleys

Ridge Vineyards history begins in 1885 when Osea Perrone, a prominent Italian doctor in San Francisco, purchased 180 acres of land near the top of Monte Bello ridge.  Perrone terraced the slopes, planted vineyards and constructed the Monte Bello Winery, producing the first vintage in 1982.  In the 1940’s, William Short purchased the abandoned winery and vineyards just below Perrone’s property and planted new vines.  From there a number of partnerships were formed with the surrounding vineyards, mostly by individuals with Stanford Research Institute credentials, up until 1986 when the Japanese pharmaceutical company Otsuka became the owners.  The Ridge team is still more like a group of inspired academics than anything remotely corporate.

The history of the Ridge Sonoma Three Valleys began with the release of the 2001 vintage.  The wine contains grapes from a number of Sonoma vineyards and varies from year to year.  The 2011 vintage is a blend of six grapes; Zinfandel (65%); Petite Sirah (20%); Carignane (9%); Mataro (3%); Alicante Bouchet (2%) and Grenache (1%).  The crush and fermentation process takes place at both Monte Bello and Lytton Springs.  The wine picks up the characteristics from the various grapes that have been wonderfully blended together.  Zinfandel determines the wine’s varietal character; old-vine Carignane contributes bright fruit and acidity; Petite Sirah spice, depth of color, and firm tannins; Grenache brings earthy fruit and lively tannins.

The 2011 Three Valleys wine has a deep inky red color and a great nose full of fresh fruit and berries.  The taste has both depth and character with dark berry jam fruit flavor.  The wine is supple yet slightly tannic, finishing with a little spice.  This was a very easy drinking and enjoyable wine, and for about $25, reflects a good value.  Three Valleys wine would go nicely with a wide variety of foods.

Cheers!