More about the Ridge Vineyards 2021 "Estate" Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon: The 2021 Ridge Estate Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the harmonious marriage between meticulous viticulture and the unique terroir of the Monte Bello estate. Comprising 84% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Merlot, this wine reflects the distinctive character of its mountainous origins. The 2021 growing season presented challenges, with a dry winter and warm summer stressing the vines, leading to concentrated flavors. Harvested between September 1st and 24th, the grapes underwent native yeast fermentation and matured for nineteen months in air-dried American oak barrels, half of which were new. On the palate, the wine offers a fresh entry with building tannins that coat the entire mouth. Gravelly, dusty, and mineral notes give way to layers of red and black fruits. Integrated oak complements the youthful tannins and acidity, suggesting significant aging potential. The wine's structure and complexity have garnered critical acclaim, with Decanter awarding it 96 points, describing it as "evocative of first-growth Bordeaux nuance and complexity." Jeb Dunnuck also praised it with a 95+ point rating, noting its "pure, concentrated, layered mouthfeel" and predicting it will "keep for 30 years." This vintage stands as a compelling example of Ridge Vineyards' commitment to producing wines that are both expressive of their origin and crafted with an eye toward longevity. The 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is poised to evolve gracefully over the next decade and beyond, rewarding those who choose to cellar it with an increasingly profound depth and complexity. For connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike, it offers a glimpse into the enduring legacy of one of California's most esteemed wineries.