1981 Tepusquet Cabernet Sauvignon

In 1981, to explore the potential for fine Cabernet from different regions, we made two new wines – one from Mendocino County, released last spring – and this Cabernet from the Tepusquet Vineyard in Santa Barbara County. The flavors which developed during twenty-two months in small oak cooperage have enhanced the distinctive regional character of the fruit. This is a soft, full wine which should be at its best over the next three or four years. PD (12/83)

Begun in 1959, Ridge was one of the first of today’s chateau-size California wineries, that is, those that attempt only the highest quality at the quality levels of the classified chateaux (up to 40,000 cases). All the wines are aged in small oak cooperage with the majority receiving no cellar treatment other than racking. Located above 2300 feet on the Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains, our winery and main vineyards overlook San Francisco Bay.