Ridge 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains, CA

$59.99 bottle / $335.94($55.99) six-pack 

While there are a gazillion California Cabernets to choose from, this is our choice. Already delicious, complex and very well-balanced, it will only improve for a decade plus. I was recently in Napa and tasted an awful lot of Cabernet Sauvignon costing two to three times this price that weren’t nearly as compelling. “Made just like all the Ridge wines. The well-known Monte Bello structure leaps out at you, taut and lean, salty, but backed by ample cherry fruit and a touch of oak spice. This wine has concentrated and dark fruit, Bright and spicy, a mountain Cabernet through and through. There’s an approachability here, and that is the role of this Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet in the library of agreable Ridge wines. Elegance married to approach-ability.” - 94 Decanter & “Taught and structured, the 2023 opens with dark fruit, cracked pepper, smoked meat, tobacco leaf and cedar, all enshrouded in firm, chalky tannins that lead to a long, savory finish.  This is a very fined access point to the Ridge house style at a more approachable price. Drink 2025- 2033.” - 93 Vinous