1990 Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet

1990’s growing season was the most nearly perfect of the last ten – possibly twenty – years. This stunning cabernet combines rich, structured wines from the lower vineyards on Monte Bello Ridge with softer lots from both the lower and upper vineyards. Inclusion of fifteen percent merlot has contributed fullness, while spice and a sense of sweetness come from the new American oak used in aging. The wine is representative of the cool Santa Cruz Mountains, not the warmer-region style so often described as “Californian.” Lovely now, it will continue to develop over the next ten to fifteen years.

Founded in 1959, Ridge was one of the first of today’s small, fine California wineries—limiting production to achieve the highest quality. From the beginning, close adherence to traditional winemaking techniques has set Ridge apart. This approach determines our style and includes the use of natural yeast submerged-cap fermentations, aging in small oak cooperage, and careful racking at each transfer to achieve clarity. Located above 2300 feet on Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains, our winery overlooks San Francisco Bay

Average Rating: 92.8

No. of Tasting Notes: 7

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