The 2013 Monte Bello is an absolute masterpiece from Ridge Vineyards. The Monte Bello vineyard has an extremely unique terroir with its proximity to the pacific, limestone rich soils and elevated and cool climate, which results in one of the most compelling wines in all of California. Coming from a dry growing season in the Santa Cruz Mountains the final blend is composed of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 7% Cabernet Franc with only 5% Merlot. As this truly majestic wine begins to open it releases seductive aromas of ripe black raspberries and cassis along with fresh spring floral, exotic spices, graphite, pencil shavings and hints of sweet tobacco all emerging beautifully from the glass. Although still youthful, this shows remarkable definition, with a gorgeous rich texture with wonderful purity and beautifully concentrated flavors on the palate. It continues to impress with excellent overall focus and balance getting lift from its underlying acidity as it expands beautifully on to the long, persistent finish. The 2013 is a profound, age-worthy wine, which I expect will continue to evolve for decades to come. This is a complely compelling wine from Paul Draper and winemaker Eric Baugher which is built for the ages, however it is already absolutely sensational. (Best 2020-2040) - November, 2016 (JD)
Wine Specifications
- Report Date: November, 2016
- Producer: Ridge
- Vintage: 2013
- Drinking Window: 2020-2040
- Estimated Value: $185
- Country: United States
- Region: California
- Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains
- Importer: N/A