On August 11th, 2016, Jancis Robinson’s North American Assemblage reviews included a couple of back vintages of Monte Bello. The following are her reviews for the 1996 and 1997 Monte Bellos:
1996 Ridge Monte Bello
Still very dark crimson – looks much younger than 20 years old. Very rich, ripe nose – sweet and exotic – with a strong blackcurrant pastille and some balsam quality. Then on the palate there is amazing youthfulness and freshness. Heady, meaty, dense and with a long life ahead. 13%
Drink 2010-2040. 18
1997 Ridge Monte Bello
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot. An unusual year that began with torrential rains, generous flowering, severe crop thinning so yields were only two tonnes per acre. The earliest vintage since 1962. A return to the methods of the 1960s and 1970s (ambient yeast). Expected to last until 2014 according to the back label. Very dark crimson. Spicy and sweet. Fully evolved and very obviously mellow Cabernet.12.5%
Drink 2007-2021. 17.5
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