2011 Hidden Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 55 Percent Slope Sonoma County

Hidden Ridge is truly one of the most breathtaking vineyards we’ve laid eyes on in Northern California, and the wines are a direct translation. To quote Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, which bestowed upon Hidden Ridge nine scores between 94-100 points in recent vintages: “These are clearly world-class Cabernets and should be considered by any serious collector for their cellars.” 

From the fruit of a stunning mountain vineyard perched at 1,700 feet of elevation, 100-point winemaker Timothy Milos crafted today’s 2011 Hidden Ridge 55% Slope Cabernet Sauvignon—a multidimensional, ruby Cabernet Sauvignon that Wine Access fans collectively rated 4.25 stars, and is only getting better with age. 

Specifically, it’s gotten better with the age it gained in the winery’s own pristine cellar, giving complex undertones of toast, earth, and fruit to this bold, voluptuous red. A gorgeous value that’s ready for the table, all for less than the average price of a new-release Cab, just $49.99 per bottle.

Hidden Ridge is set amidst Mayacamas Mountain terrain so remote and rugged, their 48 planted acres of Cabernet Sauvignon can only be accessed via 4-wheel-drive trucks and helicopters. Up a twisting, jagged path, this special plot exists in a land of extremes on the Sonoma County side of the Mayacamas Mountains. At 1,700 feet above sea level, Cabernet vines search deep into the sandy loam and volcanic basalt that make up the Slope Vineyard, which are indeed slanted at a 55% degree angle—steep enough to make you look over your shoulder at the abyss below and double-check that your boots are flat on the ground. The vineyards are by necessity tended only by hand. 

Since the site is located above the fog line, sprawl terracing is used to ensure a mix of shade, mountaintop sunshine, and stiff breezes throughout the vineyard, endowing the grapes with their powerful tannic structure and firm acids.

As one five-star reviewer said, “Everybody likes this plush Napa cab, from wine collectors to novices.” This is one investment that pays delicious dividends.

• Fruit Intensity
• Oak Intensity
• Body
• Acidity
• Tannin

• ABV 15.40%
• 1 hour
• Drink Up
• % Cabernet Sauvignon
• Serving temperature – 60°
• Cork