Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

This wine is the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon from Chateau Montelena, an iconic and storied producer in the Napa Valley, California. The estate is located in the Calistoga appellation, at the base of Mount Saint Helena. Chateau Montelena's history dates back to 1882, but it was purchased by Jim Barrett in 1968, who set about replanting the vineyard with the dream of creating wine on par with the great First Growths of Bordeaux. The winery's philosophy centres on a long-term perspective and "farming the right way" to capture the majesty and distinctive character of their estate vineyard site. The estate's history was cemented in 1976 when its 1973 Chardonnay won the famous "Judgment of Paris" blind tasting.

Wine Description

• Country of Origin, Region, and Subregion: The wine is from the United States, specifically California, within the Napa Valley and the Calistoga appellation.

• Varietal Composition: The blend is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon (98%), with 1.5% Petit Verdot and 0.5% Cabernet Franc.

• Sensory Profile: The wine is described as a wine of reserve, balancing power with an extraordinary ability to age.

  • Colour: It presents a dark garnet, nearly violet colour in the glass.

  • Aroma: The nose is fresh and lively, opening effusively with raspberry, mint, and plum sauce. Baking spices follow, leaning toward clove, with plenty of cedar and vanilla. Ripe fruit elements, such as cassis and fig, lurk beneath, along with hints of graphite and toasted sage.

  • Palate: The texture and mouthfeel are driving factors, initially feeling tightly wound. The dynamic tension on the mid-palate magnifies layers of black cherry, cocoa powder, and black pepper, before turning slightly earthy and dusty.

  • Finish: The structure is pronounced yet harmonious. Acidity materializes on the finish in an almost candy-like fashion, providing a beautiful contrast to the supple tannins. The density of the wine shines elegantly, with persistent length and depth.

• Stylistic Notes: It is aged for 22 months in 100% French oak barrels (40% new). The unusually low nighttime temperatures of the vintage magnified the acidity in the fruit, which created an elegant structure for extended ageing, rather than an overtly jammy flavour. This wine is not indicated as organic in the sources.

• Optimal Drinking Window: Described as "superb" and "impressive," this young Cabernet needs time in the bottle to fully come together.

Accolades

• Vinous - 96 points

• Decanter - 93 points (Also cited as 96 points)

• Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - (94+) points

• Ken's Wine Guide - 93 points

Food Pairing

The wine's robust nature, firm tannins, and smoky, spicy complexity make it ideal for rich, savoury dishes.

• Suggested Pairings: Suggested pairings include smoked beef brisket, rare porterhouse steak, or prime rib. This pairing highlights the wine's depth and character.