2001 Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello

"Expansive black-fruit aromas, plus some mulberry and bitter chocolate, make this mature Californian red hard to resist. The balance of mouth-filling richness with fine tannins gives this a sensual, velvety mouth-feel, followed by chalky minerality and bright acidity that create fantastic tension at the finish. A cuvee of 56% cabernet sauvignon, 36% merlot and 8% petit verdot. Tasted at the Thomas Kammeier Monte Bello vertical. Drink or hold." 98/100 - James Suckling