Chateau Montelena Estate Zinfandel 2019
- Vintage
- 2019
- Country
- USA
- Region
- Napa Valley,Calistoga
- Size
- 750ml
- Grapes
- Zinfandel/Primitivo
Long before they were confirmed to be two clones of the same grape variety, we noticed the synergies between Zinfandel and Primitivo in the bottle. Classic, heritage Zinfandel is a match for Calistoga: slightly rustic, occasionally briary, but rich and full-bodied when ripe. Primitivo, conversely, leans toward the red side of the flavor spectrum with ample acidity and incredible freshness.
Both exhibit unique expressions of our Estate vineyard and therein lies the creative challenge: how to blend these disparate characteristics into a wine that is delicious, ageable and complex. Thankfully, it’s due to this paradox that the profile has become so legendary and certainly rare in Napa Valley. Our Zinfandel is not like the others, and we’re perfectly fine with that.
NOSE: Deep garnet in color, the wine opens with cranberry, raspberry and vanilla on the nose. While the aromas lean toward red fruit initially, they’re bolstered by baking spices, cocoa and dried cherry.
PALATE: Medium in body, the palate brims with fresh strawberry and rhubarb, balanced by fine-grain tannins and plenty of breadth. The texture is seamless despite its youth, which bodes well for the future. A few minutes in the glass reveals additional depth as well as subtle notes of blackberry and spiced plum.
FINISH: The finish is slightly more candied and absent of any herbal character. Here, the tannins turn more silky or satin-like, extending and lingering with a hint of minerality.
- Winemaker's Notes
Chateau Montelena was founded in 1882 by Alfred Tubbs. The renaissance of the winery, under the leadership of James Barrett, began in 1972 with the replanting of the Estate vineyard and the establishment of the Chateau Montelena philosophy: make the best, period. Today the tradition continues. Jim Barrett's son, Bo, winemaker at Chateau Montelena beginning in 1982, is now its Master Winemaker. After more than three decades of experience with the same vineyards and varieties, the Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Napa Valley Chardonnay are recognized as world-class.