Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon

With over forty years of experience in this dynamic and distinctive vineyard, the team at Montelena have recognized the value of blazing their own trail. Most of all, they set the standard for themselves, not relative to the rest of Napa Valley or the vintage expectations, but based on their own potential to make this wine better every year. In 2016, mild conditions prevailed during July and August leading to ample hang time for the fruit as ripening progressed slowly and evenly across the Estate. A blend of 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Cabernet Franc aged for twenty two months in French oak (40% new). Incredibly floral and opulent, the red berry character of this vintage, mostly Bing cherry and raspberry is buttressed by rich notes of cocoa, hazelnut, and Earl Grey. 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. Pair as one would Bordeaux, Beef Wellington, duck a lorange, hard cheeses like Mimolette. .