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Ridge Vineyards

Napa Valley

Address:

Ridge Vineyards, Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA, USA

Website: 

Winemaker:

John Olney

First Vintage:

1962

Accepts Visitors:

Yes

PRESTIGE

average rating is 4 out of 5

4

Summary

Ridge Vineyards is an iconic winery perched in the hills of Northern California, exuding a fusion of rustic charm and modern finesse. Known for its exceptional single-vineyard wines, Ridge has a storied history dating back to the 1880s when Osea Perrone, an Italian immigrant, first planted vineyards on the Monte Bello Ridge. However, the modern era of Ridge began in 1962 when it was purchased by four Stanford Research Institute engineers, who recognized the potential of the existing old vines.

The winery is most renowned for its Monte Bello estate, situated at an elevation of 2,600 feet in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This estate is a winemaking treasure, famous for its Monte Bello Bordeaux-style blend, which skyrocketed to fame after the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, where California wines triumphed over French labels in a blind tasting.

Ridge Vineyards operates with a philosophy deeply rooted in sustainable and organic farming practices, reflecting their commitment to preserving the land and producing wines that truly express their terroir. Their vineyards are managed without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, ensuring that the vines thrive in harmony with the surrounding environment.

The tasting rooms at Ridge offer an intimate experience, with views that sweep across the California landscape, encompassing lush vineyards and, on clear days, the glistening San Francisco Bay. The staff, knowledgeable and passionate about the winery's history and offerings, guides visitors through a selection of current releases and library wines, highlighting the nuances and distinctions of each varietal and vintage.

Ridge's portfolio boasts a diverse array of wines, with the Monte Bello as the crown jewel. Zinfandel is another varietal that Ridge has become synonymous with, particularly from their Geyserville and Lytton Springs vineyards situated in Sonoma County. These wines exhibit a bold character, yet retain a balance and complexity that are the hallmarks of Ridge's winemaking style.

The winemaking process at Ridge is marked by minimal intervention. Led by a philosophy that great wines are made in the vineyard, Ridge employs traditional techniques, such as natural fermentations and the use of American oak barrels, to craft wines that exhibit purity of fruit, complexity, and a sense of place.

Visitors to Ridge Vineyards can expect more than just a wine tasting—they will have an immersive experience that includes tours of the historic grounds, access to the cellars, and possibly a glimpse of the winemaking process in action. Events throughout the year, including wine club members' dinners, harvest celebrations, and educational seminars, further enhance the connection between the wine enthusiasts and the estate.

In every bottle of wine Ridge produces, there is a story that speaks to the winery's enduring legacy and pursuit of excellence. For wine connoisseurs and novices alike, Ridge Vineyards represents an essential chapter in the narrative of American winemaking, where the marriage of art, science, and nature yields something truly extraordinary.

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