Ridge Vineyards – Monte Bello 2006 – Santa Cruz Mountains USA

Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello 2006 is a classic Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet-led blend with mountain fruit, chalky structure and precisely integrated oak.

🍷 At a Glance

• Grapes: 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc
• Region/Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains, California, USA
• Vintage: 2006
• Aging: 18 months in barrel; 97% new air-dried American oak, 3% new French oak
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Style: Full-bodied, dry red

👃 Tasting Notes & Experience

Ripe mountain bramble, cassis and currant meet dark chocolate, toasty oak, licorice and exotic spice. The palate is full-bodied and balanced, with elegant chalky tannins and integrated oak.

❤️ Why We Love It

• A fully documented estate vintage with a precise Cabernet-led blend
• Mountain structure and restrained alcohol support the wine’s long-lived character
• Chalky tannins and integrated oak keep the concentrated fruit balanced

🍽️ Food Pairing Ideas

• Grilled ribeye
• Roast lamb
• Braised beef
• Aged hard cheeses

👤 Who This Wine Is For

✓ Collectors of mature California Cabernet blends
✓ Fans of classic Santa Cruz Mountains wines and Ridge Monte Bello
✓ Drinkers who value structured reds with restrained alcohol and aging potential
✕ Not ideal if you prefer soft, fruit-forward reds with minimal tannin