Montelena, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Size:12x750ml This more obviously structured effort

This more obviously structured effort is almost delicate at present though I suspect that the mid-palate will further flesh out with bottle age

Somewhat surprisingly this appears to be even riper than the Clos de Bèze with its mocha-infused nose of plum

the overall tannin balance will need watching here

Bright red fruit

Montelena, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Size:12x750ml This more obviously structured effortGood deep red. Red berries, pungent herbs, menthol and cedary oak on the nose. Brisk and tightly wound, with edgy flavors of cherry syrup and rhubarb. The tannins are a bit dry but hit the palate late, allowing the red fruit flavors to express themselves on the back. Shows a slight overripe underripe character but I would not be at all surprised if this wine came into better harmony with another year or two of bottle aging. Stephen Tanzer