1998 Monte Bello

The 2000 Monte Bello exhibits a briary, rustic bouquet, with notions of grilled meat, cigar ash and leather complementing its rich blackberry, cassis and plum fruit. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, fleshy and supple, with an ample core of succulent fruit, melting tannins and a long, savory finish. It's drinking beautifully today, especially with a decant (which helps to integrate this Monte Bello's wild side). The product of a cool September, the 2000 is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc that attained 13.4% natural alcohol. (WK)

Do you want the good news or the bad news? Well, Ridge's 2000 Monte Bello is still not ready to drink. Huge, rich and voluptuous, but backed up by serious structure, the 2000 is still a very, very young wine. Readers who own the 2000 should be thrilled. With time in the glass, the 2000 starts to open up a little bit aromatically, but the tannins remain imposing. Hints of tobacco, iron, smoke, savory herbs, leather and licorice all add nuance on the close. This dramatic, brooding Monte Bello will likely drink well for another three decades. In 2000, Montebello is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. (AG)

Still very deep crimson with some ruby at the rim. Rich, sweet, developed nose. Flattering nose but quite delicate, almost fragile, on the palate. Seems to be drying out a bit? Or perhaps the tannins are just rather aggressive at this stage in its evolution. Seems a little teenage at this point. (JR)