1984 Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello Vineyard Estate
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 1984 Monte Bello has a surprisingly backward nose with predominantly black fruit laced with peppermint and light ash-like scents. Well-defined, but it either needs a couple more hours in the decanter or a few more years. The palate is medium-bodied with black fruit laced with licorice. It's racy in terms of acidity with good density. Secondary notes gather towards the finish with mocha and light leather notes with impressive length. An excellent wine, but it is certainly taking its time. Tasted blind at Olivier Bernard's "4" dinner at Domaine de Chevalier.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 1984 Monte Bello is a terrific choice for drinking now and over the next decade or so, as it is close to being fully mature. Iron, smoke, tobacco, game, scorched earth and licorice, along with coarse tannins give the 1984 its somewhat burly, rustic personality. I expect the 1984 will remain at its current plateau of maturity for at least a few years, but it will always be wild, muscular and not especially polished relative to the very best years.
Very dark and thick crimson. Very complex and complete. Warm and round. So lovely! Richer than a red bordeaux would be – but no less complex.
Medium, amber-edged red. Ripe, chocolatey aromas of plum, currant, leather and cedar; claret-like, complex and just about mature. Juicy, deep and subtly rich but not especially fleshy. Intensely flavored and penetrating, with surprising acidity for the year. Stylish and long on the aftertaste. A warm year in a cool region, notes Draper.