Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Fresh and lively, the wine opens exclusively with raspberry, mint and plum sauce. The baking spices soon follow, leaning clove initially but with plenty of cedar and vanilla. Still subtle, the ripe fruit elements, mostly cassis and fig at this stage, lurk beneath the surface along with beautiful hints of graphite and toasted sage, awaiting additional time in glass. Still very tightly wound, its the texture and mouthfeel that drive the palate initially. The tannins in particular are somewhat coarse but not so angular to overshadow the abundant dark fruit. The dynamic tension on the mid-palate serves to focus and magnify the layers of black cherry, cocoa powder, and black pepper, before turning slightly earthy and dusty. The structure is pronounced, but still harmonious and well defined. Its in the transition to the finish that the acidity materializes in almost candy-like fashion, a beautiful contrast to the supple tannins. Here the wines density shines elegantly, well balanced between smoky, espresso bean and delicate, dried blackberry. Its the latter that defines the finish at this moment, persistent in length and depth. Blend 98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1.5% Petit Verdot, 0.5% Cabernet Franc.

Critical Acclaim

96 Vinous

The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is impressive. Elegant and poised, the 2018 is a wine of reserve at this stage. Dark red/purplish berry fruit, mint, sage, spice, mocha and dried flowers open first, followed by a kick of vibrant acids that lends notable energy throughout. All this young Cabernet needs is time in the bottle to fully come together. I won’t be surprised if it turns out to be a touch more compelling than the 2019 tasted alongside it. Truth be told, both vintages are captivating, but for very different reasons. Superb.

95 Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Currently being offered to mailing list members as part of a three-vintage pack (2008, 2013, 2018 for $700), the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is a killer wine that should continue to drink well for another 15 years or so. It offers up evolved notes of cigar box but remains fresh, with intense redcurrant and cassis still in evidence on the nose. Medium to full-bodied, it’s silky, aristocratic in bearing and long on the finish.