2000 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Estate
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Tasting notes
‘We used a third-generation destemmer which we thought at the time was very sophisticated.’ Healthy crimson. A little chewy still but clean and fresh, with reasonably well-managed tannins. Racy. Not at all like the Napa Valley stereotype. Just a little lean. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The dense purple-colored 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc) reveals a sweet perfume of black currants, an expansive, full-bodied palate, surprising elegance as well as accessibility, excellent purity, and a long, layered finish. It is a successful 2000 Cabernet to drink now and over the next 12-15 years. (Release date Spring 04) Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221
(purchased as futures) Red-ruby. Claret-like aromas of black cherry, plum, currant, cocoa powder, loam, smoke and spice. Rich, dense and supple, with depth of flavor for the year and very good vinosity. Rather showy wine, with the characteristic medicinal-but-sweet flavors of Montelena. Tannins spread out nicely on the lingering finish.
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.