At a glance

Producer

Ridge Vineyards

Region

Santa Cruz Mountains, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend (primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and occasionally other Bordeaux varieties)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$300 per bottle

Tasting profile

Black currant, graphite, dark plum, cedar, tobacco, and mineral notes with firm tannins and a deep palate

Evolution: Will develop tertiary aromas of leather, forest floor, truffle, and earthiness over the next decade

At peak: Complex, layered, and silky texture with fully integrated tannins and nuanced savory characteristics

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus acidity, balancing the rich fruit and supporting longevity

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated, providing excellent backbone for aging

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5% ABV

Aging potential

30-40+ years under proper storage conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2056

Optimal window

2027 to 2059

Current status

Entering early maturity

Current condition

The 2019 is approachable with some cellaring, showing excellent structure and complexity, but benefits from moderate aeration.

Monte Bello is a famed Bordeaux-style blend with powerhouse tannins and acidity. The 2019 vintage has the balance and concentration to age for multiple decades, progressively unfolding depth and complexity beyond its youthful power.

Food pairing

Hearty red meats (prime rib, venison), game, mushroom risottos, aged cheeses (Comté, aged Cheddar), and grilled vegetables with umami-rich sauces

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften the assertive tannins and open the wine's aromatic profile for enjoyable early drinking

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Ridge Vineyards engages in water conservation, cover cropping, minimal chemical intervention, energy-efficient bottling lines, and recycled packaging materials

While not certified organic or biodynamic, Ridge adopts recognized sustainable viticulture and winery practices enhancing environmental stewardship. Their localized vineyard and facility operations minimize transportation footprint domestically, though international shipments contribute to carbon footprint. Packaging uses lightweight bottles and recycled materials.