Ridge Vineyards
Classification
As one of the esteemed producers in California, Ridge Vineyards is not part of the Bordeaux grands crus classes, as it's not a Bordeaux wine. However, its stature is often compared to top-tier Bordeaux producers like Château Latour, Château Margaux, and Château Haut-Brion.
Highlights
- Vintages with 100-point scores: 2010 Monte Bello, 2012 Monte Bello
- Most Popular: Monte Bello, celebrated for its impeccable balance and depth
- Highest Achievement: Being one of the top five Cabernet Sauvignons in the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris
Provenance & Masters Behind the Bottle
Founded in 1962 by four Stanford Research Institute engineers, Ridge Vineyards has been at the forefront of California winemaking. Paul Draper, the master winemaker behind the label until his retirement in 2016, was a pioneer in using natural yeast fermentation and minimal intervention in the cellar. Draper's philosophy of "hands-off" winemaking has been the guiding principle for Ridge's consistently high-quality wines. The vineyard is now overseen by winemaker John Olney, who continues the tradition of meticulous craftsmanship.
Vineyard & Craftsmanship
The Monte Bello vineyard lies atop the Santa Cruz Mountains and boasts limestone-infused soils. This unique terroir contributes to the distinct flavors and complexities in Ridge wines. A blend primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, creates a well-balanced, complex flavor profile. Ridge practices sustainable farming and is known for its low-yield, high-quality crops, making their wines highly sought after and scarce on the market.
Aging & Investment Value
Ridge wines, particularly Monte Bello, are known for their impressive aging potential, often improving for two to four decades. This long life-span adds a substantial investment value to each bottle, making it a compelling choice for collectors aiming to both enjoy and invest in wine.
