Ridge Monte Bello - 2008 (750ml) 100 with a deep ruby/purple color

with a deep ruby/purple color

blackberries and black currants are found in this still youthful

continues the remarkable turn-around in quality that began five years ago

acacia blossom

Ridge Monte Bello - 2008 (750ml) 100 with a deep ruby/purple colorThe 2008 Monte Bello is striking. It is a decidedly muscular Monte Bello endowed with layers of dark fruit. Tobacco, mint, asphalt and crushed rocks develop in the glass, adding tons of complexity and finesse. A long, saline finish rounds things out beautifully. In 2008 the cold growing season stretched into October and the wine definitely has the feel of a cool vintage. The spring frost and the second year of drought conditions lowered yields