Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello 2021

Ridge Monte Bello is one of California’s true benchmark red wines, admired for its remarkable balance, precision, and longevity. First released in 1962, it carries forward a viticultural legacy that reaches back to 1886 on the Monte Bello Vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains, making it a wine with real historical weight as well as prestige.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2021 Monte Bello shows a deep, dark ruby color that hints at its concentration. The bouquet is layered and expressive, with ripe plum, blackberry, espresso, black truffle, anise, crushed stone, and subtle oak notes all unfolding with air. On the palate, it is powerful and full-bodied, yet composed and finely balanced rather than heavy. The dark fruit is vivid and structured, supported by elegant savory and mineral nuances, and the wine already feels impressive despite its youth. With its classical structure and restrained alcohol, it has excellent aging potential and should evolve beautifully over many years.

Production
Monte Bello comes from Ridge’s historic vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where the cooler mountain terroir helps preserve freshness, structure, and aromatic detail. The wine is a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, with the final blend shaped to reflect both site and vintage. Winemaker Eric Baugher matures the wine for 17 months in 100% new, air-dried oak barrels, adding complexity and polish while maintaining the wine’s natural elegance.

Food & Serving
This is a wine that pairs beautifully with premium cuts of beef, lamb, venison, and rich mushroom dishes, as well as truffle-infused cuisine and aged hard cheeses. Serve it at around 16–18°C, and consider decanting for 1–2 hours if drinking young, as this will help the wine open up and reveal its full aromatic depth.

Producer
Ridge Vineyards is one of California’s most respected producers, known for wines that combine site expression, precision, and ageworthiness. Monte Bello, from their Santa Cruz Mountains estate, is widely regarded as a flagship wine and has helped establish Ridge as a reference point for serious American fine wine. The estate’s long history and consistent critical acclaim have cemented its reputation both in California and internationally.

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