Ridge Vineyards
Wines have been made from vines planted on Monte Bello Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains for over 100 years: it was a spot that was immediately noted for its potential by winemaking pioneers. It was in 1976, however, that Ridge Vineyards was shot into the limelight with the 1971 Monte Bello, made by legendary winemaker Paul Draper, placing fifth in the Judgement of Paris tasting. Paul has since retired, but his philosophy of low-intervention, organic winemaking continues under Eric Baugher, ensuring the wines continue to express tons of character: they’re some of the most expressive wines we know. Over the years, Ridge have stayed true to their pioneering, individual style of Californian Cabernet: personifying elegance and restraint.