Ridge Vineyards Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 750ml

OwenBargreen.com: 93 Points “The 2023 ‘Santa Cruz Mountains’ Cabernet Sauvignon has 15% Merlot blended in. It is refined and elegant on the tongue, as the toasty oak caresses a gorgeous core of dark currants, black cherry compote and espresso bean notes alongside gravelly soils. Very fresh and vibrant, with terrific acidity, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2025-2035.” -Owen Bargreen (June 2025).

Vinous Media: 93 Points “The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon (Santa Cruz Mountains) is a blend of fruit from the Monte Bello estate and a few neighboring vineyards (Bates, Vidovich and Fellom) aged for 16 months in 100% American oak. Taut 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 fine access point to the Ridge house style at a more approachable price. As a note, this cuvée has existed in various iterations in the past, and was the original designation for what eventually became Ridge’s Estate Cabernet.” -Billy Norris (September 2025).

Wine Enthusiast: 93 Points + Cellar Selection “This bottling, which includes 15% Merlot and 4% Petite Verdot, marks the return of an appellation blend to the Ridge lineup. Aromas of black plum, clove and ajwain draw in the nose, while the palate picks up licorice and more black plum alongside a firm structure.” -Matt Kettmann (December 2025 Issue).

Wine Advocate: 92 Points “Including contracted fruit from Bates Ranch, Fellom Ranch and Vidovich, along with additions from Monte Bello, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon marks the first return of this cuvée since 2007. A lush nose of sweet black fruits, pine needles, sage and a gourmand touch of vanilla pod introduces a soft, velvety and pliable palate, ending with a pure, mouthwatering finish framed by a subtle touch of woody tannins. Overall, it’s a solid, accessible and over-performing example of Santa Cruz Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, which includes 15% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot.” -Matthew Luczy (August 2025).

Wine Spectator: 92 Points “This sports a lively singed mesquite and savory aspect out front, with juicy and youthfully compact notes of red currant, bitter cherry and plum coulis held in check for now. Shows nicely chiseled tannins through the finish. A modicum of patience is needed. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2027 through 2038.” -James Molesworth (September 2025)