Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (375ml)
- Vintage
- 2011
- Country
- USA
- Region
- US-Napa Valley
- Size
- 375ml
- Grapes
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Rating
- WA91,ST92
Pale to medium garnet-purple colored, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate features notes of cranberries, black raspberries and warm red currants with touches of garrigue, lavender and wild thyme. Medium-bodied with understated, chewy tannins and just enough freshness, it finishes with pleasant herb and toast flavors. - WA91
Aromatically, this is one of the most elegant Estate Cabernets that we have released in the last decade. Notes of strawberry, rhubarb, and vanilla jump out of the glass, closely followed by lavender, bay laurel, and allspice that gradually increase in intensity as the wine breathes. On the palate, the rich minerality is balanced by ripe raspberry and earth, all of which are tied together by silky, fine tannins that frame and enhance the soft texture, rather than overwhelm it. A vein of bright acidity is present from start to finish and, coupled with subtle toasted oak undertones, accentuates the splendor of Old World and California flavors integrating seamlessly. As would be expected, the finish is almost Bordelaise in its subtlety and grace, with hints of cranberry, mint, and cocoa. - 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.
