2013 Monte Bello Historic Vines
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Tasting notes
The 2013 Monte Bello Historic Vines is much more tannic and forbidding than the Steep Terraces. Beams of tannin and intense, mineral/savory aromatics are the key signatures. A wine of structure and tannin, the Historic Vines is a wine for patient readers. It won't be ready to drink anytime soon, that much is obvious. Readers who can find a bottle or two should not hesitate, as it is fabulous. Sadly, there are just six barrels (about 150 cases) to go around. A host of blue/purplish fruits, dark spice, lavender and graphite saturate the deep, resonant finish.
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Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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Ridge's 2013 Monte Bello Historic Vines emerges from some of the original vines planted in the 1940s. At just 12.6% alcohol, the 2013 delivers superb intensity and depth, with pulsating acidity and tons of energy. This old-school, small-lot Cabernet Sauvignon will drink well for decades. The only problems will be finding it and waiting for it to come around. These diseased vines usually struggle to ripen, but according to Eric Baugher the drought and a final kick of heat during harvest gave the plants just enough energy to ripen. The 2013 is a wine of contrasts, as it is quite dark and feels much riper than it actually is.
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.