2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Ridge Vineyard
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
One of the many highlights in this range, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is terrific. The effects of the drought and resulting heat stress come through in the wine's structural feel and bold, incisive flavors. Even with all of its intensity, the 2014 has a certain silkiness in its tannins that makes it approachable today. Of course, the 2014 will be even better in another few years, but opening a bottle on the early side is not a crime. The 2014 spent 27 months in French oak. Readers who are looking for a more affordable alternative to Ridge's iconic Monte Bello should consider the 2014 Estate. Look for the Estate to be a real overachiever in 2014 as well as one of the best - possibly the best - California Cabernet in its price range. (AG)
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Another terrific wine, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (incorporates 24% Merlot) is an inky, structured effort that has lots of blackberry, cassis, scorched earth and toasted spice notes giving way to a full-bodied, concentrated and tannic profile on the palate. Beautifully concentrated, it still has a serious amount of tannin and I wouldn't touch a bottle for another 4-5 years. It will have an easy two decades or more of overall longevity.
Ridge's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate may very well be the single finest value in California Cabernet Sauvignon in its price range. Rich and explosive, with plenty of vintage 2012 exuberance, the Estate Cabernet hits the palate with masses of dark, concentrated fruit that nearly buries the mountain tannins. There is plenty of tension, beneath although 2012 remains radiant and incredibly appealing today. Shades of tar, graphite and smoke add darkness on the finish. The 2012 could use a few years in bottle to shed some of its baby fat, but it is remarkable by any measure. I don't think there is a finer California Cabernet Sauvignon today at this price, but if there is, I would like to taste it. (AG)
About the producer
Best known for its iconic Monte Bello, Ridge Vineyards makes some of California’s finest wines – particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Long a pioneer of sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking, Ridge makes an extensive range from Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains.