Chateau Montelena Napa Cabernet Sauvignon – 750ml

Without any effort, dried blueberry and ripe plum are immediately front and center of an incredibly dynamic yet classic nose. A quick swirl of the glass reveals fresh lavender and cocoa, quickly followed by bing cherry and a hint of black pepper.

The cascade of flavors and textures is prodigious as the palate meanders between rich, dark blackberry jam and lively, almost candied raspberry. The tannins, quite supple at present, add depth and breadth to a robust mouthfeel and converge on subtle earth and tobacco undertones that contrast and highlight the wine’s polished and focused acidity.

Refined and well-integrated, the long, rich finish reveals hints of anise and cedar, which, along with ripe fig and incredibly fine tannin, add additional layers of elegance and grace.

The 2016 growing season has all of the hallmarks of a classic Napa Valley vintage. Late winter rains primed the soil for early vine growth in the spring, with bright summer days unfolding in textbook fashion. There was plenty of warmth, cool afternoon breezes, and a few hot days through July. During the critical month of August, as the vines enter the final period of ripening, temperatures remained moderate and predictable, allowing us to slowly and methodically harvest with flavors and textures at their peak.