2001 Chateau Montelena, The Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga 1x750ml

Vinous 96

The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, tasted from magnum, is superb. It’s more than that. The 2001 is exactly what a 20 year-old Napa Valley Cabernet should be. Hints of bay leaf, tobacco, incense and licorice meld into a core of brambly dark fruit. There’s plenty of structure and old school classicism to admire, not to mention more than enough power to ensure another two decades of very fine drinking. The 2001 has been a controversial wine in some settings, but this magnum is pristine. This is a tremendous showing. [Antonio Galloni, 04/06/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2021-2041

Robert Parker 92

Medium to deep garnet-brick in color, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate opens with notes of charcuterie, yeast extract and cedar over a core of red and black currant jelly, tobacco leaf and new leather plus a hint of dried sage. Medium-bodied, it has a firm frame of chewy tannins and plenty of freshness lifting the savory/earthy flavors, finishing long and a bit woody. [01/12/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030