1981 Ridge, California Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello, Santa Cruz Mountains 1x750ml

Robert Parker 88

“The 1981 Monte Bello is also fully mature, and it’s a pretty wine, though it won’t go down in the history books as one of the benchmark vintages. Offering up notes of dried currant fruit, orange rind, medicine cabinet, cedar and spice, its aromas are subtly informed by the signatures of Brettanomyces. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied, bright and chalky, with tangy acids and an evolved but sweet core of fruit. While it was overshadowed by greater years at this tasting, enjoyed on its own the 1981 is a complex wine with plenty of Monte Bello character. But now is definitely the time to drink it. It’s a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot that attained a mere 12% alcohol.” [31/05/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2001-2020

Vinous 94

A distinctly Old World profile emerges from the 1981 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello. Iron, smoke, herbs, dried cherries, mint and tobacco are some of the signatures. The firm tannins ensure the 1981 will drink well for another handful of years, give or take, but the edges are a bit frayed. I don’t see much upside from further cellaring, although the 1981 might very well hold for some time. This is a distinctly ferrous, savory Monte Bello with a high level of Cabernet Sauvignon by historical standards. [Antonio Galloni, 07/01/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2015-2020