Frequently Asked Questions
The Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from the Santa Cruz Mountains is a masterful expression of mountain-grown terroir and meticulous winemaking. This full-bodied red exhibits rich layers of dark fruit, including blackberry, black cherry, and plum, enhanced by nuanced notes of cedar, mint, and vanilla from American oak aging. Its structured yet refined tannins and lively acidity create a harmonious balance, while hints of graphite and herbal undertones lend complexity. Crafted from estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, often blended with Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine offers extraordinary aging potential, evolving into greater elegance over the next 10-15 years. Perfect for pairing with hearty dishes like grilled lamb or beef short ribs, the Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a timeless choice for wine enthusiasts seeking sophistication and character in every sip.
Process & Profile
The Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted exclusively from the historic Monte Bello Vineyard in the Santa Cruz Mountains, established in 1886. The wine is produced using hand-harvested, estate-grown grapes and fermented with indigenous yeasts. The process highlights minimal intervention with natural malolactic fermentation, minimal sulfur usage, and barrel aging in 100% air-dried American oak barrels for 17 to 22 months depending on the vintage. Each vintage is a unique blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and small proportions of Merlot or Petit Verdot, showcasing the terroir's rugged sophistication and complexity.Tasting Notes
This Cabernet Sauvignon is rich in character, revealing a lush and bold profile. Expect aromas of black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, and plum, accompanied by subtle hints of cedar, juniper berry, and sweet oak. On the palate, layers of red and black fruits are complemented by gravelly, mineral nuances, exotic spices, and a touch of vanilla. The wine's tannins are refined yet structured, promising a long, complex finish with excellent ageability.What Makes It Special
The Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is more than just a wine—it's a masterful representation of the Santa Cruz Mountain terroir. Sourced from the Monte Bello Vineyard's old vine blocks, the wine balances power with elegance. Its traditional winemaking philosophy, including the use of native yeasts and sustainable farming practices, ensures an authentic expression of the land. The meticulous barrel aging in American oak further enhances the wine's signature flavors, making it distinct among Californian Cabernets.How to Enjoy
This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like grilled lamb, beef ribs, or roasted poultry. For a gourmet pairing, try it alongside braised short ribs or a rich mushroom risotto. The wine is best enjoyed decanted for at least an hour to allow its flavors to fully open up. While it is approachable in its youth, with proper cellaring, this wine will continue to develop complexity over the next 10 to 20 years, making it a versatile choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term investment. Indulge in Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon to experience a storied winery's tradition blended seamlessly with the expressive spirit of California's finest vineyards.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the blend composition of Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2020?
The 2020 Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot, grown in 18 different plots of the Monte Bello Vineyard, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
What are the tasting notes of this wine?
The 2020 Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon offers aromas of black cherry, plum, black tea, cedar, and sweet oak. On the palate, it reveals flavors of bramble fruit, vanilla, mint, and well-integrated tannins, culminating in a long finish.
How is this wine produced?
The grapes for the 2020 Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon were destemmed but fermented as whole berries to allow gentle extraction. The wine was aged for 16 months in American oak barrels, with 55% being new oak, to balance structure and integrate tannins.
What is the aging potential of this wine?
The 2020 Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has excellent aging potential. While it is enjoyable now, it will continue to evolve over the next 10-15 years, making it an ideal wine for cellaring.
What foods pair well with the Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, including grilled meats like Korean-style short ribs, lamb meatloaf, or red wine sausage pizza with mozzarella and red onion. It also complements hard cheeses and feathered game.
What makes Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon unique?
The Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from grapes grown in the Monte Bello Vineyard, celebrated for its high elevation, limestone soils, and consistent production of complex wines. This vineyard has a storied history dating back to 1886, and the wine reflects its terroir with a distinctive minerality and mouthfeel.
Is this wine suitable for immediate consumption or should it be decanted?
The Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon can be enjoyed now, but it is recommended to decant it an hour before serving to allow the flavors to open up. For an optimal experience, consider aging it further.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The 2020 Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has an alcohol content of 14%.
What are critics saying about the Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2020?
The 2020 vintage has received praise for its firm structure, vibrant aromas of black plums and herbs, and well-integrated tannins. Critics such as Jeb Dunnuck have noted its potential to improve with a year or two in the cellar and its ability to age gracefully over a decade.
Where is the Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon produced?
This wine is produced at Ridge Vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, California. The vineyard's high elevation and cool climate contribute to its signature elegance and balance.
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