Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2019 750ml

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019 

Decanter 95 Points | Deliciously savoury and herbaceous, this Cabernet from the iconic Montelena Estate is a welcome throwback. Wild anise, turned earth, and wild lavender flowers announce the aromatics, followed closely by dusty red berries. The palate is fresh and lively with savoury dill and bay leaf notes and a tremendous chalky texture that envelopes a core of bright, concentrated berries. Perfectly tart blackberries, smoky clove, and white pepper provide brightness and spice. This delicious Cabernet's finish is marked by eucalyptus and mint.

91 Points Robert Parker | The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley includes 9% Merlot from a vineyard in Oak Knoll and spent 16 months in 28% new French oak, with a bit of Hungarian as well. It offers up textbook notes of cherries and redcurrants, plus a hint of vanilla, all in an easy-drinking, medium to full-bodied format. The tannins are silky, and the acids are tart in this moderately concentrated effort that should provide enjoyable drinking over the next 10 years or so. Best After 2023.

90 Points Wine Spectator | Solidly built, showing an array of singed vanilla and cocoa along the edges, with a core of steeped plum and blackberry compote flavors. The slightly chewy finish is scored by tar and savory accents, giving this a bit of an old-school bent in the end. Best from 2023.

Winemaker Notes

Pure and powerful, this wine opens with fresh blueberries, blackberry pie and cassis. The endless dark fruit is complemented by a range of baking spices: vanilla at first, but also clove and cinnamon. The first sip instantly reveals the character of this Cabernet: dense and chewy with bright red fruit, incredible tension and pure, fine grain tannins. Not only is everything in its place; but the layers of flavor, the depth of the fruit and the sublime texture are constantly rearranging. Each glass will be a unique experience. In contrast to the dynamic palate, the finish is focused and stout. Abundant cocoa, espresso bean and black pepper dovetail into dark, black fruit while tart raspberry and strawberry jam linger. 

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot