Ridge

If the United States had a formal classification of estates, Ridge would be the equivalent of a First Growth... There is no doubt in my mind the Santa Cruz Mountains is the greatest and most overlooked terroir in the United States. Period! To be sure, these hillside sites are capricious and hard to work with. But they are also capable of producing riveting, emotional, world-class wines... Ridge remains one of the finest operations I visit anywhere in the world. The total commitment to quality, value and customer service simply has no equal in this country. Although the flagship Monte Bello, Lytton Springs and Geyserville bottlings get most of the attention, the Three Valleys Zinfandel is a reliably outstanding value, while the Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is the finest California Cabernet Sauvignon in its price range. ANTONIO GALLONI, Vinous

Ridge boasts as illustrious a history as any winery in California, but they certainly aren't resting on their laurels. Indeed, a persuasive case could be made that Ridge is currently producing the best wines they've ever made. WILLIAM KELLEY, The Wine Advocate