The 2019 Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a notable red wine from the esteemed Napa Valley, USA. Produced by Chateau Montelena, this wine is crafted from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from the estate's vineyard located near the base of Mount St. Helena. The wine is bottled with a cork closure and has an alcohol content of 14.1%.
Decanter awarded this wine an impressive score of 99, highlighting its complexity and potential for aging. They describe it as "compact and restrained at first; give it some air and good things will come." The tasting notes emphasize bright red-toned fruits, dried wild herbs, and rich cedar spices. Additionally, Decanter praises the wine's "impressive depth and concentration," particularly in the mid-palate, which features crushed stones and earthen minerality. The tannins are described as "elongated and crisp," while the acids are firm and tangy. According to Decanter, this wine will evolve and shine over the next four decades, rewarding those who have the patience to let it age further.
Vinous also gave the 2019 Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon high marks, with a score of 96. They describe the wine as "heady and quite extroverted," especially when compared to the 2018 vintage. The review notes that the wine is difficult to resist, with "silky, plush tannins wrapping around a core of dark fruit, chocolate, lavender, spice, and leather." Vinous appreciates the combination of a generous, opulent style with the classically-leaning Montelena profile, suggesting it will be a compelling drink over the next two decades or more.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also reviewed this wine favorably, awarding it a 96+ score. They conducted a comparative tasting with two bottles—one freshly opened and one that had been opened the day before. Both bottles were deemed outstanding, though the freshly opened one was slightly tighter. The tasting notes mention "mixed currants and cherries" on the nose, with hints of dark chocolate. The palate is described as "medium to full-bodied, rich, expansive, and velvety," with a "lingering, mouthwatering finish."
In summary, the 2019 Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a highly acclaimed wine with a strong potential for aging. It offers a rich and complex profile with balanced tannins and acidity, making it a worthy addition to any wine collection.