Perrone - Monte Bello Vineyard

2014 Santa Cruz Mountains Merlot

The Ridge Perrone - Monte Bello Vineyard Merlot from 2014 is a captivating red wine that showcases the elegance and complexity of the Santa Cruz Mountains. This medium-bodied offering boasts bright acidity, enhancing its overall vibrancy while providing a delightful backbone. With a prominent fruit intensity, it reveals luscious notes of black cherry and plum, beautifully complemented by subtle hints of chocolate and spice. The tannins are notable yet balanced, enabling the wine to express a refined structure that promises great aging potential. Its dryness makes it an exceptional choice for a variety of culinary pairings, making it truly food-friendly and approachable for any occasion.

Tasting notes:

Black Cherry

Blackberry

Baking Spice

Flavor profile:

Acidity Mild

Low Pronounced

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Pairs well with:

Roast Leg of Lamb, Roasted Lamb

Region:

Central Coast

California's Central Coast might be a bit quieter than Napa or Sonoma to the north, but this lesser-known region produces many world-class wines. Enjoying incredible terroir along its vast 280-mile stretch—from San Francisco Bay to Santa Barbara—Central Coast wines are increasingly in demand. Its position between the Pacific Coast Ranges and the Southern Coast Ranges is key to its quality, with many cool-climate AVAs offering elegant Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and Merlot. In the hotter parts of the Central Coast, away from the coastal fogs and cold mountain slopes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre are exceptional.

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