An all-time Monte Bello great.
Suckling 100:
Tightly wound at this stage, the wine is massively concentrated, taut, yet trim and medium-bodied. Aged in 100% new oak, predominantly American, it offers espresso, blackberry, black cherry and vanilla bean flavors with a linear intensity and drive. Known to age and improve for several decades, this is one of California’s most collectible cabs and from a classic, age-worthy vintage. Best from 2031.
Wilfred Wong 100, too:
The Ridge Monte Bello Red Wine, one of the world's most iconic wines, stands tall again. First produced in 1962, this wine continues to amaze me. This vintage excels with aromas and flavors of early summer blackberries, fragrant spices, and hints of chalk. Enjoy it with a grilled American Ribeye or a French Entrecote.
And 100 from Karen McNeil. And best ever for The Wine Enthusiast:
This ageworthy classic is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot this vintage. The nose offers focused aromas of blackberry, toasted herb and light caramel with a hint of cocoa dust. The firm, leathery palate feels like it will last forever, as waves of berry, herb, pepper, clove and pencil shavings flow on. Drink now-2045.
As always, this one is highly allocated and very limited. (It comes in 3-packs.) But as Karen McNeil says: “Buy a bottle or two now while you can. You’ll be glad you did.”
No NC listings, but this is $309.99 at Wine.com. (And the lesser 2020 sells here for $300.)
