1998 Ridge Vineyards "Sonoma Station" Sonoma County Zinfandel
SKU #330597
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A blend of 75% Zinfandel, 11% Carignan, 9% Alicante, and 5% Petite Sirah that achieved 13.7% alcohol, this peppery, dried herb, red and black currant-scented and flavored wine is medium-bodied, with abundant levels of berry fruit, good purity, and a soft, straightforward, fleshy character similar to an impeccably made French Côtes du Rhône.
(6/2000)
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Bright red-ruby. Blueberry, bitter chocolate and white and black pepper on the nose. Fruit-driven flavors of red and black berries complicated by a peppery nuance. Juicy and not at all over the top. Finishes with slightly drying but light tannins and good persistence.
(6/2000)
K&L Notes
The grapes for this wine are grown in three viticultural areas Dry Creek, Russian River, and Alexander Valleys. The varietal mix parallels traditional "field blends" found in old especially Italian plantings throughout Sonoma. Expect the raspberry and blackberry so typical of this region's old-vine zinfandel, along with complexity imparted by the other varietals. Petite sirah contributes spice and color; carignane brings firm acid, bright fruit flavors, and a certain elegance.
