Chateau Montelena
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Napa Valley, California
The wines at Chateau Montelena are often described as having classic “old-world” structure with ripe California fruit, and the Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is emblematic of this style. These wines tend to have more acid and more moderate alcohol levels as compared to some of the “cult” Cabs. This combination of classic chemistry and California sunshine allows them to offer immediate pleasure and complexity on release, and the ability to develop beautifully.
The wine is crafted from Montelena estate and prime neighboring vineyards located in the northern end of the Napa Valley, in and around Calistoga, next to primary or secondary tributaries of the Napa River. More specifically, each site has been selected for its alluvium soil profile, which provides an earthy, complex and concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is softened by the judicious addition of Merlot, more than the Estate Cabernet, and is aged similarly to the Estate Cabernet, just a few months fewer, and it requires fewer months in barrel before release.
Vineyard
Prime vineyards are located in the northern end of the Napa Valley, in and around Calistoga. All of the sites are located next to primary or secondary tributaries of the Napa River and have been selected for their alluvium soil profile. Soils provide an earthy, complex and concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon. The cobbly, gravelly subsoil makes for deep root penetration and good drainage.
Winemaking
The Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has more acid, lower pH and more moderate alcohol levels as compared to some of the flashy “modern” Cabs. The 2018 vintage is made up of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc. The wine is aged in French and Eastern European oak barrels (26% new) for 16 months. The earthy, complex and concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon is softened by the judicious addition of Merlot, which results in a medium-bodied wine with depth of flavor.
Vintage
A cool start to the growing season and late bloom in the vines seemed to portend a late, long growing season. But by June, the Napa Valley summer was in full swing. With a healthy crop, the vines weathered the heat, recharging each evening with cool breezes from the Pacific. Harvest was slow and steady, affording us the opportunity to be very selective in how and when the vines were picked. The result is a wide array of aromas, flavors, and textures that seamlessly fuse into the character of this wine.
Tasting Note
Dark garnet, nearly violet in the glass; the nose possesses an aromatic intensity that is irresistible. Fresh berries and dried cherries commingle with bergamot, lavender, mint, gunpowder, and sage without a single element dominating another. The palate is fresh and dynamic, with cranberry, cola and raspberry jam. The acidity is laser focused, the spine pulling the layers of flavor into harmony with the wine’s supple, yet dense, structure. The tannins here serve to elevate, not overwhelm the kinetic balance of texture, ripeness, and vineyard character. Toasted hazelnut and vanilla emerge as the wine leans savory with mushroom, black pepper, and cedar. The Merlot in the blend really shines here with rhubarb, cassis, and velvety softness.
Food Pairing
This is a wine that can handle bold flavors and is a great match for a juicy steak or event wild pheasant and duck. It also pairs well with dishes such as beef stew, pot roast, or grilled veal or lamb. Consider enhancing your pairings with rich sauces, like a dark mushroom sauce, red wine reductions, or a hearty peppercorn sauce.
Color
Red
Grape Varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Appellation
Napa Valley, California
Farming
Chateau Montelena is committed to sustainable farming and produces wine in their solar powered winery
Alcohol
14.2%
Suggested Retail Price
$75
Reviews
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Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
Potter Valley Riesling
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Zinfandel
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