The 1998 represents a pivotal vintage in Spring Mountain Vineyard’s evolution. With La Perla now contributing 61% of the blend, the estate character became more defined and mountain-driven. A late, cool vintage produced wines of notable structure and acidity.
After a wet winter, the growing season began late with heavy rain and storms lasting into mid-June. Bud break was about a month behind the previous year. Intermittent rain during late May and June caused shatter in many blocks, partially responsible for low yields. Despite warm July weather, grapes remained unusually late developing. Veraison was irregular and ripening came 30 to 40 days later than the previous year, resulting in a slow, selective harvest. The weather of September and October was clear, and the grapes ripened fully in cool autumn conditions.
