On March 9 James interviewed John Olney, head winemaker & COO at Ridge Vineyards, along with David Amadia, president, and tasted a range of their newest releases. The wines highlighted the California winery’s continued success at making intense yet balanced wines. "The power [of Ridge Monte Bello] comes from the concentration and not the alcohol or ripeness,” said Amadia. “It is a different type of power."
James said the wines were very drinkable, with the zinfandels showing richness and agility, while the Monte Bellos were some of the longtime best wines produced from the State. They also shared thoughts on the 2018 and 2019 vintages in Napa, with the 2019 being more fruit-forward, reminding James of 1997 which produced friendly, fruity wines.
Ridge is one of the few producers that label the ingredients in each wine, which itself puts this winery among a rare breed.
Below are the wines tasted during the call. Click the links to see the tasting notes and scores (subscribers only).
Ridge Vineyards Santa Cruz Mountains Monte Bello 2018
Ridge Vineyards Santa Cruz Mountains Monte Bello 2017
Ridge Vineyards Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains Estate 2019
Ridge Vineyards Zinfandel Sonoma County Alexander Valley Boatman 2018
Ridge Vineyards Zinfandel Paso Robles Benito Dusi Ranch 2019
Ridge Vineyards Zinfandel Sonoma County Dry Creek Valley East Bench 2019
Ridge Vineyards Sonoma County Alexander Valley Geyserville 2019
Ridge Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Cruz Mountains Estate 2018
