Ridge Vineyards - Monte Bello 2015

In 1962, Ridge made its first Monte Bello, and two years later its first zinfandel. Since that time, Ridge has championed single-vineyard winemaking, searching California for those rare and exceptional vineyards where climate, soil, and variety are ideally matched.

Complex aromas of blackberry, tobacco, roasted coffee bean and wintergreen. On the palate, concentrated plum layered with well-coated tannins, firm acidity, oak spice and notes of licorice on the long finish.

Blend: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc

"Stunning depth, power, purity and elegance. The blackcurrants and plums are fresh and intense on the nose with blueberries and gently herbal notes, too. The palate has a keenly articulated array of vibrant tannins that hold long, fresh and pure. It invokes a sense of wonderment at the finish. So long and so pure. This blend of 77 per cent cabernet sauvignon, 11 per cent merlot, seven per cent petit verdot and five percent cabernet franc, is just at the start of a wonderful journey. Try from 2021." - 100 Points, James Suckling

"Smoky black, plummy fruits, graphite, violets, and that classic Monte Bello oak profile all shine in the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello, and it's concentrated, full-bodied, and structured on the palate, with a beautiful core of fruit yet rock-solid aacidity and ripe tannins. While it's a touch foursquare and gangly at present, it's nevertheless a gorgeous effort that's 5-7 years away from the early stages of its prime drinking window. It will have 40+ years of overall longevity and is an utter classic from this estate." - 98 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

Producer: Ridge Vineyards

Country: USA

Region: California

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc

Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains

Vintage: 2015

Size: 750ml