2016 Ridge, California Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello, Santa Cruz Mountains 1×1.5L

Vinous 100

The 2016 Monte Bello is a masterful expression of this lauded site in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It s powerful, broad and infinitely layered, but it also possesses an incredibly finessed tannin structure that speaks clearly and forcefully but yields dutifully. Saturated blueberry, gravel, eucalyptus, charcoal, cedar and India ink build gradually and steadily through the long and sizzling finish. Just beginning to soften and develop beyond the primary stage, it wouldn t be a crime to open a bottle now, but this has many, many lives left to live and should be even better (if you can fathom) in a few more years. This is what Monte Bello is all about. [Billy Norris, 01/10/2024]

Anticipated maturity: 2027-2056

Robert Parker 93

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Monte Bello Vineyard is composed of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc, aged 17 months in American oak (35% new). It has a medium to deep ruby color with scents of blackcurrant, chocolate-covered cherries, cedar, cigar box, red fruit sparks, dried flowers and blackcurrant bud plus notions of graphite and iron. Medium to full-bodied, it offers wonderfully lush fruits and firmly integrated, classically rustic tannins, seamless freshness and a long, savory finish. [Erin Brooks, 02/09/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2038