1994 Ridge, California Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello, Santa Cruz Mountains 1x750ml

Vinous 90

The 1994 Monte Bello from Ridge Vineyards showed well with its old-school nose of mulberry, eucalyptus and touches of truffle, shoe leather notes emerging with time. The palate is beautifully balanced and refined, with candied red fruit, though a touch of dryness on the finish suggests it will not improve with bottle age. On the other hand, I cannot see any rapid decline based on this example, though it is not the best Monte Bello I have tasted and was trounced by the superlative 1991 I encountered just a month later. [Neal Martin, 02/04/2022]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2030

Robert Parker 92

Tasted at the Fine Wine Experience vertical. A blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot, this has a lovely, enticing bouquet of dark cherried fruit, spice, cracked black pepper, cedar and smoke. Great definition. The palate is medium-bodied, sweet on the entry, good acidity with sharp red cherry fruit, strawberry and redcurrant. Fine tannins, although it just lacks a little complexity towards the introverted finish. Moderate length. Lovely. Drink now-2025. Tasted June 2009. [Neal Martin, 06/01/2009]