2004 Ridge, California Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello, Santa Cruz Mountains 1×1.5L

Robert Parker 92+

"The 2004 Monte Bello opens in the glass with classic aromas of cigar box, spice and crushed red and black currant fruit, revealing little obvious trace of its time in new oak. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied but still quite tightly wound, with a firm chassis of fine-grained tannins and a bright line of acidity that seem to demand further cellaring. I suspect it’s in a somewhat withdrawn phase between youth and maturity. That said, the 2004 isn’t as structured as another backward vintage, the 2006, nor do I believe it possesses as much potential for positive evolution. It’s a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc." [William Kelley, 31/05/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2030

Vinous 93

Readers looking for a Monte Bello that is ready to drink should consider the 2004. Just beginning to enter its early plateau of maturity, the 2004 is in a beautiful spot right now. Sweet tobacco, smoke, cedar, licorice and leather meld into a core of dark fruit. The 2004 won’t last forever, but it does have enough depth to age beautifully for the another decade, perhaps more. A distinctly floral/savory finish rounds things out nicely. [Antonio Galloni, 07/01/2014]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024