Ridge vineyards have not been represented in Norway for some years, but came back into the market abt 18 months ago. I have had several bottles of 2007 Lytton Springs and 2006 Santa Cruz Mountain Estate, and have been pleased with both of them. Some vintages of Monte Bello have been available at high prices, but not tasted by me.
A couple of weeks ago Director of winemaking, Eric Baugher, came to Oslo together with the Ridge Export Manager. This was a sit-down tasting where they presented 14 wines (incl. six Monte Bello red) and they also served nice tapas. Total price only USD 55. So may be some subsidizing from Ridge? I was very glad when I got the ticket, as there were only 35 seats.
White wines:
Chardonnay Estate 2009 (formerly “Santa Cruz Mountains Estate”)
Monte Bello Chardonnay 2008
Red wines:
Lytton Springs 2008, 2004
Geyserville 2009, 2008, 2004
Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2008 (formerly “Santa Cruz Mountains Estate”)
Santa Cruz Cab Merlot 2007
Monte Bello 2008, 2007, 2006, 2000, 1997, 1994
The younger Lyttons and Geyserville are being sold here at USD 53, Santa Cruz red at USD 60, Monte Bello 2006 USD 148 and the two whites at USD 60 / USD 77. Amongst the participants there was a general impression that prices for the whites are too high related to quality. Lyttons / Geyserville and Santa Cruz red are at the right level here for that quality.
Throughout the evening I was comparing the wines with the better Douro wines I am enjoying. My conclusion is that in general I still prefer Douro wines, but I think the younger Lyttons and Geyserville will be in my cellar on a regular basis (quality/price evaluation). Highest scores were given by me to 2008 Monte Bello 94 pts, 2006 Monte Bello 91, 2004 Lytton Springs 91, 2008 Santa Cruz Mts Est red 91. Lowest score 86 pts given to 2004 Geyserville and 2007 Santa Cruz Merlot.
Ridge vineyards in Oslo - tasted 14 wines
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