Ridge Vineyards : Monte Bello 2019

A Californian wine with a seductive freshness and richness

The estate

In 1885, Dr. Osea Perrone acquired land in the Dry Creek Valley region and planted vines on this clay-limestone soil. The first vintage was produced in 1892.

Acquired in 1959 and renamed 'Ridge Vineyards' in 1962, the estate developed its vineyard and called on Californian winemaker Paul Draper to turn this property into an icon among the finest Californian wines.

Ridge Vineyards is an exceptional organically-farmed vineyard, renowned for the quality of its wines, which are vinified in a non-interventionist manner and which magnify the purest expression of the fruit.

The wine

Ridge Vineyards' Monte Bello 2019 is a California wine made from vineyards composed of clay and limestone soils in the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation. The new vintage of this wine marks the 60th anniversary of this illustrious estate.

Vinification and ageing

The winemaking at the estate is carried out using non-interventionist techniques, inspired by those practiced in the 19th century. The wine is aged for 17 months exclusively in barrels (95% American and 5% French).

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (82%)

Merlot (9%)

Petit Verdot (8%)

Cabernet Franc (1%).

Ridge Vineyards' 2019 Monte Bello: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

This wine showcases an intense ruby hue.

Nose

The luscious and expressive nose has spicy (clove, nutmeg) and fruity (blackcurrant) aromas with notes of fennel, toasted oak and black tea.

Palate

The full mouthfeel reveals velvety tannins. The finish is persistent and blends a pleasant minerality with undergrowth notes.

Food and wine pairing

This Californian wine will complement pan-fried filet mignon or a mushroom gratin.

Service

For an optimal tasting, serve at 16-17°C.