The premise behind our flagship wine is decidedly simple: it’s unapologetically Montelena. With over 40 years of experience in this dynamic and distinctive vineyard, we’ve recognized the value of blazing our own trail outside of others’ conventions and norms. It takes confidence in our land as well our people, farming and winemaking to buck the trends and fads that perpetually morph and meander through the wine world. Most of all, we set the standard for ourselves, not relative to the rest of Napa Valley or the vintage expectations, but based on our own potential and our own drive to make this wine better every year. is is not without risk, and is certainly not the easy path to take, but it’s inherently part of who we are, our legacy and our future.
Early budbreak and a warm spring hinted at another early harvest, similar to 2015. However, after a turbulent and blustery May, the summer weather settled into a fairly typical and moderate routine with consistently warm days and only few noticeably hot stretches. Mild conditions prevailed during July and August leading to ample hangtime for the fruit as ripening progressed slowly and evenly across the Estate.
NOSE Incredibly floral and opulent, the red berry character of this vintage, mostly Bing cherry and raspberry at this stage, is buttressed by rich notes of cocoa, hazelnut, and Earl Grey. Black pepper and cedar complement this freshness exquisitely.
PALATE Dense but light on its feet, the contrast of velvety tannins and bright acid bookend a youthful and vibrant palate, chock full of blackberry sorbet, plum sauce, and strawberry jam. Fresh fig and marzipan lend richness and texture while stitching these disparate forces into a cohesive yet lively experience.
FINISH Baking spices abound on the finish along with coffee bean, star anise, and an almost caramellike sweetness that dovetails beautifully with fresh blueberry and cinnamon.
Established by Alfred Tubbs in the year 1882, he started planting vines in the empty plots nearby his locality and within a decade, the Chateau Montelena Wines became the 7th biggest winery in the entire area of Napa Valley. This winery came into prominence when the Chardonnay white wines crafted here went on to win the very reputed “Judgement of Paris” wine competition. The Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the special varietals grown in the vineyards here, because the soil used for cultivating it is one of the most unique in the world. In the same vineyard, you will get to notice sedimentary, alluvial and volcanic soils.
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