2017 Chateau Montelena, The Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga

Tasted from a core blend, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate has the potential to develop into a gorgeous wine. Actually, it already is. Juicy and plump, with no hard edges, the 2017 has a lot to offer. Soft contours work well to bring out the wine's racy, supple dark cherry, plum, chocolate, cedar and licorice flavors. This is an especially forward, inviting young Cabernet from Montelena. The 2017 is already impeccably balanced for such a big wine.

Napa Valley’s Chateau Montelena needs no introduction, nor does its iconic Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2017 vintage is just starting to show its hand, layering ripe blueberry and dark cherry with touches of dried sage, espresso, wild strawberry and black pepper. Concentrated and assured, it’s still gathering complexity, but the promise is unmistakable. Best enjoyed by candlelight with a perfectly cooked steak.

99% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc. Aged for 22 months in 100% French oak (40% new). Pretty deep crimson with a slightly evolved rim. Savoury but not that intense aroma. Really mouth-filling and complete with the fruit covering the ripe tannins well. Opulent. Sweeter than some. Long. California? (JR)