1987 Monte Bello

In March, unreasonably warm weather brought on an early bud break. During flowering, cold winds swept in from the Pacific and when the grapes finally set, we had only a quarter of a normal crop. The cool growing season ripened the grapes at ideal sugar levels, while the low yield contributed intense fruit and firm structure. In the selection, thirty percent was held out and bottled as Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet. This Monte Bello will need five more years to show its best qualities and twenty to mature fully.

Founded in 1959 when there were less than 70 active California wineries, Ridge was one of the first of today’s small, fine producers. Close adherence to traditional winemaking techniques has set Ridge apart. It determines our style and includes natural yeast, submerged cap fermentations, racking to achieve clarity, and filtering only when necessary for stability. Our winery and estate vineyards are located above 2,300 feet on Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains and overlook San Francisco and the Bay Area.

Average Rating: 90.9

No. of Tasting Notes: 36

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