2012 Monte Bello scores 98 points in latest Vinous Media reviews; 1974 vintage a perfect 100

Vinous

A dozen great reviews (all 94 points or higher) from Vinous Media’s Antonio Galloni of our wines, including last year (vintage 2011) and this year’s Monte Bello (vintage 2012) releases and a perfect 100 point score for the 1974 vintage:

• 2014 Monte Bello: 94-97 pts. (unreleased barrel sample, Fall 2017 domestic release)
• 2013 Monte Bello: 96+ pts. (unreleased, Fall 2016 domestic release)
• 2012 Monte Bello: 98 pts.The following is an excerpt from the cover article about Galloni’s visit to the Monte Bello winery and the vertical tasting:
  

  “Ridge’s commitment to quality, value and customer service has no equal in this country. Although the flagship Monte Bello, Lytton Springs and Geyserville bottlings get most of the attention, the Three Valleys Zinfandel is a reliably outstanding value, while the Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is without question the single finest California Cabernet Sauvignon in its price range. Best of all, Monte Bello remains one of the finest relative values in cellar worthy wine readers will find anywhere in the world. Monte Bello takes time to fully blossom, but the rewards for waiting are nearly immeasurable, something I am reminded of many times throughout this unforgettable retrospective.”

  To read the in-depth article, click here.