Ridge Vineyards, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Product Information
Country USA
Region California
Grape Variety 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot
Vintage 2023
ABV 13.4%
WINES WILL BE SHIPPED TO THE UK IN AUTUMN 2026
Ridge Vineyards 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon — Estate Santa Cruz Mountains Red
Vintage: 2023
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon Blend (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc & 3% Petit Verdot)
Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains, California
Alcohol: 13.4% ABV
Bottle Size: 750 ml
A refined expression of California Cabernet crafted by one of the most respected producers in Sonoma & Santa Cruz, Ridge Vineyards 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon delivers powerhouse structure, balanced acidity, and complex aromatic layers. The Estate Cabernet reflects a cool, slow growing season and careful winemaking that highlights regional terroir.
Tasting Notes — Critics & Winemaker
Winemaker’s Notes
Crystal clear ruby red in the glass with expressive aromas of black olive, tobacco leaf, and cocoa. On the palate, plush blackberry fruit and firm, well coated tannins are beautifully balanced by bright acidity and a lingering finish with liquorice and cedar whispers.
Critics’ Scores & Reviews
Vinous Media (Billy Norris): 93, Dark fruit, cracked pepper, tobacco, chalky tannins.
Wine Enthusiast: 93, Black plum, clove, structured palate.
Wine Advocate (Matthew Luczy): 92, Lush nose with vanilla, velvety texture.
Wine Spectator (James Molesworth): 92, Juicy red currant, bitter cherry, long finish.
Average Critics’ Score: ~92 – 93+ points — a standout Cabernet from the 2023 vintage.
About the Vintage & Vineyard
The 2023 growing season in the Santa Cruz Mountains was marked by heavy winter rains and a cool, extended season, producing grapes with excellent natural acidity and flavour concentration. Harvest stretched well into October and November, allowing for optimal phenolic ripeness. These conditions lend this wine a finely textured structure destined for medium to long term ageing.
The Estate Cabernet sources fruit from Ridge’s historic Monte Bello property and select neighbouring vineyards, maintaining a house style that has balanced, complex, and refined.
Discover Other Vintages of Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2022
Best Food Pairings
This Cabernet’s firm tannins and bright acidity make it a versatile match with hearty dishes like:
• Grilled ribeye or New York strip with cracked peppercorn crust
• Herb roasted lamb with rosemary & garlic
• Mushroom risotto with aged Parmesan
• Aged cheddar or Manchego cheese boards
Why Choose Ridge Vineyards 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon?
• Critically acclaimed with multiple 92–93+ scores.
• Estate influenced complexity with approachable structure.
• Medium term cellar potential (best 2025–2035+).
• Exceptional representation of Santa Cruz Mountains terroir.
FAQs — Ridge Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Q: What is the ideal drinking window for this wine?
A: Critics suggest drinking from 2025 through 2035 for peak aromatic and structural development.
Q: Is this wine suitable for ageing?
A: Yes, the balanced acidity and firm tannins make it a great candidate for cellaring.
Q: What food pairs well with this Cabernet?
A: Think grilled red meats, rich pasta dishes, and aged cheeses, the wine’s structure and fruit profile stand up beautifully to bold flavours.
Q: How does this compare to Monte Bello Cabernet?
A: While Monte Bello is Ridge’s flagship, the Estate Cabernet offers greater early accessibility without sacrificing terroir driven complexity.
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