At a glance

Producer

Ridge Vineyards

Region

Santa Cruz Mountains, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Dense black fruit, cassis, pencil lead, graphite, earth, with underlying floral notes.

Evolution: Will evolve to reveal more tertiary notes like leather, tobacco, and forest floor over the next decade.

At peak: Powerful yet refined, silky texture with complex, layered flavors and long finish.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced acidity that supports aging

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated tannins with fine grain

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Excellent, capable of 20+ years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2045

Optimal window

2023 to 2048

Current status

Approaching early drinking window but best enjoyed with some additional cellaring.

Current condition

Showing youthful intensity with robust tannins and structured acidity.

The 2013 Monte Bello is a classic age-worthy Bordeaux-style blend with significant tannins, acidity, and concentration. Given its pedigree and vintage quality, it requires additional bottle aging to soften tannins and develop complexity before approaching its peak drinking window.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled ribeye steak, lamb chops, roasted game birds, mushroom risotto, aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the wine to open and soften tannins for more immediate enjoyment, especially when young.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Ridge Vineyards employs water conservation, solar energy use, and minimal intervention in vineyard management; uses lightweight bottles for packaging efficiency.

Ridge Vineyards is recognized for sustainable vineyard practices, including integrated pest management and renewable energy usage. Though not certified organic or biodynamic, their commitment to sustainability is notable, supported by SIP certification and environmental initiatives.