2018 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Estate
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Tasting notes
The current-release 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (soon to be supplanted by the 2019) takes a base of ripe cherries and redcurrants, then accents them with delicate herbal-floral nuances. It's medium to full-bodied, restrained in the classic mold, silky and elegant, with a long, dusty finish tinged with lingering hints of menthol.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is impressive. Elegant and poised, the 2018 is a wine of reserve at this stage. Dark red/purplish berry fruit, mint, sage, spice, mocha and dried flowers open first, followed by a kick of vibrant acids that lends notable energy throughout. All this young Cabernet needs is time in the bottle to fully come together. I won't be surprised if it turns out to be a touch more compelling than the 2019 tasted alongside it. Truth be told, both vintages are captivating, but for very different reasons. Superb.
About the producer
Chateau Montelena is a historic Napa Valley estate that rose to global fame after its 1973 Chardonnay won the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Renowned for both its Chardonnay and Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, the winery continues to produce elegant, age-worthy wines with a legacy of excellence.