2007 Chateau Montelena, The Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga 1x750ml

Vinous 95

Bright ruby-red. Slightly jammy aromas of blackberry, cassis and cherry complemented by spice and cedar nuances. Wonderfully sweet and mouthfilling but not a bit weighty, with its dark berry, spice and tobacco flavors firmed by medicinal menthol and mint notes. This suave, fine-grained beauty can be enjoyed now owing to its superb balance but it also has the penetration and cut to go on for another 20 years. Winemaker Matt Crafton describes 2007 as "a Goldilocks vintage," with long, slow ripening, no weather extremes and full flavor development. Finishes very long, with wonderfully suave tannins and no shortage of structure. (14.3% alcohol) [Stephen Tanzer, 21/05/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2019-2039

Robert Parker 95

"Deep garnet colored, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate displays a very slowly evolving nose of creme de cassis, chocolate-covered cherries, vanilla pod and smoked meats with touches of dried Provence herbs, cedar chest and cloves. Medium-bodied, plush, rich and generously fruited in the mouth, it has a wonderfully spicy character and long baking spice and black fruit-laced finish." [Lisa Perrotti-Brown, 28/02/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2042