Ruby-red. Deep, complex, perfumed aromas of black cherry, redcurrant, plum, tar and loam. Lush, velvety and very intensely flavored, with strong extract and lovely ripe acidity giving the fruit excellent delineation. Full, rich, sweet and refined. Very slow to build on the long finish. Tannins are substantial but sweet.

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The 1994 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, which has been closed since bottling, has just begun to open and display its enormous potential. The saturated black/purple color is followed by aromas of gorgeously pure blackberry and cassis scents. Toasty oak notes are barely discernable given the wine's bombastic display of black fruits, huge, chewy glycerin level, and sensational finish. It will be exciting to follow the evolution of the 1994 and 1995.

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This is a smooth, rich, dark and polished Montelena--in short a grand wine--with remarkable depth, richness and concentration. The purity of currant, mineral, black cherry and anise is deliciously focused and the tannins are ripe and supple, making this a very approachable wine, even at this stage.--California Cabernet '74/'84/'94 retrospective. 9,000 cases made.

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Elegant: Blueberry and toasted oak on the nose. Medium body. With an hour of air it reveals blueberry and mocha on the palate. Nice long finish.