2004 Chateau Montelena Zinfandel Estate
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Tasting notes
The 2004 Zinfandel, which is about 50% made from the primitivo clone and the rest from the California Zinfandel clone, tips the scales at nearly 15% alcohol, which is high by Montelena’s standards. This is a stronger vintage for Zinfandel and for Montelena than their 2005. The wine displays plenty of briery fruit, some herb, pepper, earth, and spice, but good berry fruit as well as a fleshy, full mouthfeel. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Good bright red-ruby color. More vibrant on the nose than the 2003: cassis, black cherry and dark chocolate. Juicy and firm, with a mouthcoating texture and very good freshness. This offers more grip and structure than the 2003. Finishes firm and persistent. Bo Barrett recommends drinking this in its first five years before it becomes "old claret."
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.