2017 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Napa

VINTAGE WEATHER - Plentiful winter rains saturated the soil ahead of a pleasant, moderate spring. The vines responded fittingly with abundant green growth heading into summer. June arrived with periods of warmth punctuated by short bursts of intense heat, which continued through the remainder of the growing season. These somewhat erratic conditions present logistical challenges in the vineyard as careful monitoring of sun exposure and vine health become paramount. But, more importantly, these vintage characteristics provided ample opportunity for those of us watching carefully to harvest fruit with a dizzying diversity of flavors and textures.

NOSE: Cocoa, raspberry jam, and dried fig highlight a bright, fresh nose that quickly settles into a steady parade of baking spices, black pepper, and earth.

PALATE: Deceptively soft initially, the wine builds with its viscosity and concentration amidst layers of ripe plum, very fine tannins, and espresso bean. A lively ginger note adds a touch of spice, bolstered by dried cherry, tobacco, and fresh bright cranberries.

FINISH: The finish is laser-focused, mineral-driven and persistent, not unexpected in young Cabernet. Delicious now, it will add breadth and polish with time in glass.

BLEND: 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot

BARREL AGING: 16 months in French and Eastern European oak, 30% new