Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

I tasted the soon-to-be-released 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate from two bottles, one freshly opened and one that had been opened the day before. Both were clearly outstanding, with the freshly opened bottle being just a bit tighter and less luxuriously textured but obviously packed with potential. Mixed currants and cherries appear on the nose, joined by hints of dark chocolate, while the palate is medium to full-bodied, rich, expansive and velvety, with a lingering, mouthwatering finish. Drink: 2025~2045 - WA96+ (Joe Czerwinski)

NOSE

There is so much perfume in this wine: fresh flowers and lavender are bolstered by ripe plum, sandalwood and cherry compote. Tere’s also an incredibly appealing note of Earl Grey or bergamot that lifts the entire aromatic profile.  Lingering behind the fruit is where the action starts as black pepper, vanilla, crushed rock and soy are revealed with patience.

PALATE

The bright, zesty acidity of the vintage is immediately apparent as the fruit on the palate leans toward raspberry and cranberry, at least initially. They’re followed by a rush of chalky, angular tannins that at first frame the acidity, but then serve to mellow it. Here, the fruit turns dark once again; but this time it expresses as blueberry jam and ripe blackberry before ushering in more savory notes of cedar and mint that are very characteristic of Montelena Cabernet. There is no doubt that this is a young wine that will need a few years of cellaring before coming into balance. That said, the freshness and purity of the vineyard character are very enticing, even at this stage.

FINISH

As the palate softens, the finish begets more structure, present as espresso bean and cacao initially, but baking spices and a subtle sweetness after a few moments.  The contrast between the soft fruit and texture is one of the amazing characteristics of this wine, which should continue to increase in depth and complexity over time. - Winemaker's Notes