2010 Ridge Merlot Monte Bello Estate
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Tasting notes
Bright ruby. Powerful cherry, floral pastille and sassafras scents, along with notes of cracked pepper and musky herbs. Sweet and penetrating, offering juicy blackberry and cherry compote flavors that pick up a smoky quality with air. Closes smooth, spicy and long, with supple tannins coming on late and folding smoothly into the wine's sweet dark fruit.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2010 Merlot Estate (100% Merlot from the Monte Bello Vineyard that achieved 13.2% alcohol) comes from parcels planted at a high elevation between 1300 and 2600 feet. Classic notes of black cherries and mocha jump from the glass of this dark ruby/plum-colored Merlot. Soft and round with good fruit, medium body and a vibrant, uplifting finish, this tasty, moderately endowed Merlot can be consumed over the next 5-7 years. Tel. (408) 867-3233
An excellent choice for drinking over the next few years, the 2010 Merlot Estate is juicy, expressive and beautiful. The 2010 vibrancy and freshness is there, and adds lovely balance to the expressive fruit. The 2010 delivers plenty of Ridge personality. Best of all, readers will neither need to wait for years nor spend huge sums to find pleasure.
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.