Ridge Vineyards

The benchmark for California Cabernet and old-vine Zinfandel

Ridge Vineyards was founded in 1959 when a group of Stanford Research Institute scientists discovered an abandoned 19th-century winery atop the Monte Bello ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains. At 2,600 feet elevation, the ridge's thin, rocky soils of limestone, shale, and clay produce Cabernet Sauvignon of extraordinary concentration and longevity. Ridge's Monte Bello Cabernet entered the global conversation in 1976 when it was included in the famous Paris Tasting — and in the 2006 rematch, the 1971 Monte Bello placed first among all wines, surpassing the great Bordeaux châteaux. Winemaker Paul Draper, who joined Ridge in 1969 and guided the estate for nearly five decades, became one of California's most influential voices for minimal-intervention winemaking. Ridge's single-vineyard Zinfandels — from Lytton Springs, Geyserville, and Pagani Ranch — are equally celebrated, drawing from old-vine heritage sites that predate Prohibition. The winery's commitment to transparency (every Ridge label lists all additions to the wine) and its emphasis on terroir expression have made it a touchstone for serious wine lovers worldwide.

Signature Varietals

Tasting Experiences

Event Space

The historic Monte Bello winery, perched at 2,600 feet above Silicon Valley with sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and San Francisco Bay, offers an intimate and dramatic setting for private events. The stone winery building, dating to the 19th century, provides a unique backdrop for small gatherings and exclusive tastings.

Awards & Recognition

Sustainability

Ridge Vineyards farms all Monte Bello estate vineyards organically and has done so for decades. The winery's commitment to minimal intervention extends to the cellar — Ridge uses only indigenous yeasts, avoids acidification, and lists every addition on the label. The Monte Bello estate is certified organic by CCOF.

Gallery