Ridge Monte Bello 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, $124.79-$155.99, 95 points, poured inky black at the core trending deep maroon toward the broad clear wine ring.
Toasty blackberry, anise, warm earth, violets, cedar, and black currant were lovely aromas.
Full body carried good acidity with grainy, layered, and building tannins.
The silky smooth texture and complex balanced flavors of the bouquet whispered elegance and beguiled a short addiction; for what is a great wine that doesn't bid: "Drink me to the last drop."
Finished long on the trailing palate, easy white pepper, cardamom, plum, and an unnoticeable 12.8% alcohol.
Varietals were 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc.
Ridge, why it's a "go to" winery.
Index-of-reviewed-wines
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Quite a score! What is the highest score you have ever given a wine?
ReplyDelete97 points! So, 95 is right up there, and considering that USA Primitivo, I needed something with fireworks in it!
ReplyDeleteDennis, nice! Montebello is always a classic wine with long, long aging potential. What did you eat with it?
ReplyDeleteJohn: The label says 30 years, but it tasted just fine to me! I paired this with my wife's humble stuffed red peppers!
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