2009 Ridge Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains.
This was a spectacular bottle of Ridge Cabernet, from select lots and block on the Monte Bello Estate, this wine really is a great example of California Cabernet, and just might be my pick for wine of the vintage in 2009, even though it’s big bother the famed Monte Bello might be better, especially after a bit longer in the cellar, but as of now it is hard not to love this beautiful and textured Cabernet Sauvignon. With a good dose of estate Merlot, this 2009 Ridge Cab has a lovely round mouth feel and refined tannins while still showing youthful force on the palate and solid structure. The freshness is remarkable and the 13.5% alcohol gives this wine a truly Bordeaux grace and quality, there is sublime balance and wonderful complexity throughout this wine and the finish is near perfect. The nose starts with a grippy essence, dark flowers, mineral and hints of black olives which leads to a black fruited mouth of blackberry, currants and plum along with grilled herbs, licorice, coco powder, cedar spice, sweet tobacco and subtle oak shadings with creme de cassis, vanilla and cherry notes lingering on the finish. The ripe tannins and acidity leave a nice dry, mouth watering element, but don’t overtly show themselves and remains hidden by the energy of the fruit as it should be. I bet this wine ages well and lasts another decade easy, this is glorious California wine at it’s best.
($48 Est.) 94-96 Points, grapelive (Re-Tasted 2-3-13)
