Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 Magnum

Château Montelena is one of Napa Valley’s most iconic wineries, gaining international fame in the 1976 Judgement of Paris, where its Chardonnay triumphed over top French wines. While the winery's whites are legendary, their Cabernet Sauvignon is equally admired for its combination of power and refinement. Established in 1882 in Calistoga, at the northern end of Napa Valley, Château Montelena produces Cabernet Sauvignons known for their classic Napa richness, balanced by finesse and restraint.

The 2019 vintage benefitted from an extended growing season with mild conditions, resulting in even ripening and exceptional fruit purity. The estate’s vineyards, set on well-draining volcanic soils, impart a distinctive minerality and complexity to the wine. Minimal intervention in the winemaking process and traditional techniques ensure that this Cabernet can age gracefully, especially in the magnum format.

Appearance: Deep ruby, with an almost opaque core and vibrant garnet highlights at the rim, indicating its youth and concentration.

Aroma: Aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and ripe plum take centre stage, with layers of tobacco leaf, cedar, and dried herbs emerging. There’s also a hint of cocoa and vanilla, reflecting the judicious use of oak.

Taste: Full-bodied and rich, offering layers of dark fruits like black cherry, cassis, and blackberry, alongside subtle notes of dark chocolate and mocha. The firm tannins provide structure, but there’s a velvety smoothness that makes the wine approachable now. A slight earthiness and underlying minerality showcase the volcanic terroir, while its bright acidity keeps everything in balance.

Finish: Long and polished, with lingering notes of ripe dark berries, cedar, and a touch of spice. The tannins, while firm, are well-integrated, leaving an elegant finish that hints at the wine's future potential, especially in this magnum format.

Food Pairing: This wine is an excellent match for a dry-aged ribeye steak, where the tannins and dark fruit flavours balance the richness of the meat. It would also pair beautifully with roast rack of lamb flavoured with rosemary and garlic, complementing the savoury notes and herbs in the dish.