Ridge Vineyards
Monte Bello Vineyard Torre Ranch Merlot
Santa Cruz Mountains, San Francisco Bay, California, USA
Really young. Love it. Pure red fruit, low alcohol, distinct Ridge oak profile. 1903 Torre family homesteads the middle portion of what is now Monte Bello. Planted and built a winery, abandoned in 1920 (prohibition) successive sales led to Ridge in 1959. Original merlot block planted in 68, this is a single block planted late 80's. longer it was open the better it got
Really young. Love it. Pure red fruit, low alcohol, distinct Ridge oak profile. 1903 Torre family homesteads the middle portion of what is now Monte Bello. Planted and built a winery, abandoned in 1920 (prohibition) successive sales led to Ridge in 1959. Original merlot block planted in 68, this is a single block planted late 80's. longer it was open the better it got
Jun 13th, 2017
I can't help but think back to the release of the '09 Ridge Torre Ranch Merlot and how tense it was--full of so much potential, but closed in on itself. Well today, I had my first glance at it's beauty in early maturity. The nose was layered with a mix of black raspberry, strawberry and blueberry skins, followed by mint leaf, stone dust and graphite. On the palate, silky textures ushered in mineral-laden blue and black fruits with sweet herbs and juicy acidity, in a savory and mouthwatering performance. The finish was long, with fine tannin still present, yet enough mineral-infused acidity to add liveliness and verve. Dark fruits lingered, as well as hints of lavender and mint. The '09 is in a gorgeous place tonight.
I can't help but think back to the release of the '09 Ridge Torre Ranch Merlot and how tense it was--full of so much potential, but closed in on itself. Well today, I had my first glance at it's beauty in early maturity. The nose was layered with a mix of black raspberry, strawberry and blueberry skins, followed by mint leaf, stone dust and graphite. On the palate, silky textures ushered in mineral-laden blue and black fruits with sweet herbs and juicy acidity, in a savory and mouthwatering performance. The finish was long, with fine tannin still present, yet enough mineral-infused acidity to add liveliness and verve. Dark fruits lingered, as well as hints of lavender and mint. The '09 is in a gorgeous place tonight.
Mar 23rd, 2017
Love how this has started to open up and drink really well right now. Beautiful tea-like tannins, dark plum and clove spice on the palate. Mmmmmm.
Love how this has started to open up and drink really well right now. Beautiful tea-like tannins, dark plum and clove spice on the palate. Mmmmmm.
Dec 24th, 2015
One last goodie before it's back to Kansas. Firm massive merlot, firm black fruit, this one can go the distance! Love Ridge
One last goodie before it's back to Kansas. Firm massive merlot, firm black fruit, this one can go the distance! Love Ridge
Oct 1st, 2013
A straight forward Merlot. Clean nose. Modest tannins. Good acid. Long finish. Not fruit forward.
A straight forward Merlot. Clean nose. Modest tannins. Good acid. Long finish. Not fruit forward.
Nov 14th, 2020
This is a gorgeous 2010 Pomerol. Oh wait, it's Ridge. How am I not surprised?
This is a gorgeous 2010 Pomerol. Oh wait, it's Ridge. How am I not surprised?
Dec 30th, 2016In June 2016 - smooth after it opens for a bit - classic fragrance.
In June 2016 - smooth after it opens for a bit - classic fragrance.
Jun 26th, 2016
Full yet light with nutty hints and olive favors with a slight chalkiness that allows the flavors to marinate on your tongue. The finish is very warm and comforting - like sitting in a cabin in the mountains of Italy.
Full yet light with nutty hints and olive favors with a slight chalkiness that allows the flavors to marinate on your tongue. The finish is very warm and comforting - like sitting in a cabin in the mountains of Italy.
Jan 17th, 2016