2017 Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon Klein
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Klein Monte Bello Vineyard is incredibly appealing this vintage. The nose offers layers of pure fruits—blackcurrants and crushed cherries—with finely woven accents of graphite, leather, dried roses and exotic spices. The palate is equally compelling, with a fruit intensity that belies its powdery tannins and lifted freshness, and the finish is long and classy. What a gorgeous Cabernet! 388 cases were made.
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Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2017 Klein Cabernet Sauvignon shows a different facet of the estate, one that favors finesse over power. Silky and refined, with terrific depth and plenty of character, the Klein is one of the more restrained Bordeaux reds Ridge made in 2017. A whole range of savory, earthy and mineral notes are pushed forward, while the fruit lies more in the background.
The first time I've tasted this cuvée, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Klein comes from the lower section of the estate vineyard in the Santa Cruz Mountains and was aged 19 months in new American oak barrels. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, this deep purple-hued effort offers a medium to full-bodied, spicy, mineral-laced style to go with the classic bluer Ridge fruits, notes of violets, tobacco, lead pencil, and cedar. It has a certain Bordeaux-like texture and minerality, good concentration, plenty of structure and acidity, and a great finish. A beautiful wine, it has some approachability today, yet I suspect it will keep for 20-25 years or more.
About the producer
Best known for its iconic Monte Bello, Ridge Vineyards makes some of California’s finest wines – particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Long a pioneer of sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking, Ridge makes an extensive range from Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains.