Ridge Three Valleys Zinfandel
Description: | A second year of below-average rainfall made for a challenging growing season. A small crop was set in March, and ripened in time for a September harvest. The dry conditions resulted in smaller-than-normal berry size, which accentuated flavor. Natural yeasts carried out primary fermentation, and eight days of skin contact extracted elegant structure. Uninoculated secondary fermentation was complete in record time, allowing early assemblage. We chose the most accessible lots from six vineyards for this wine. Once blended and racked to barrel, clarity was achieved by racking off the sediment every two months. Region Description. Like its neighbor Napa, Sonoma is a small area filled with independent wineries and characterized by microclimates that vary according to the topography. The coolest parts of Sonoma are the fog-filled south, where the grape varieties are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Northwards up the valley the climate warms and provides a good base for Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. In general Sonoma wines are less dramatically flavorful than those of Napa. Cabernet Sauvignon is relatively soft, with blackcurrant fruit, minty and eucalyptus perfume, and some soft buttery oak. Zinfandel ranges from soft and gulpable to massive bramble and pepper styles. Chardonnay is rich and juicy, especially from the Russian River, and Sauvignon Blanc can be zingy and grassy. Most Sonoma wines have a freshness and a soft edge which makes them very suitable for drinking on their own, however they partner well with strongly flavored fish and meat dishes. The old-style Zinfandels are delicious with spicy cuisine. |
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Price: | $ 37.99 |
Price in original currency: | None |
Available from Haskell's
Address: |
81 South 9th Street Minneapolis, MN 55402 United States |
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Telephone (toll-free): | 800-486-2434 |
Telephone (regular): | 612-342-2437 |
Fax: | 612-342-2440 |
First added to 1000 Corks on April 15, 2022.