2014 Penultimate
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Penultimate is a wine of magnificent finesse and nuance, the same qualities that make Promontory so special in this vintage. There is a feeling of translucence that runs through the 2014 that is so compelling. Dried herbs, mint, leather, smoke, tobacco and wild dark cherry are some of the many notes that flesh out with time in the glass. I especially admire the wine’s tension, vibrancy and phenomenal finish. The 2014 is so impressive upon opening, but then shuts down quickly in the glass. A few more years in bottle will help soften the noble mountain tannins. (AG)
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Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2014 Penultimate has softened quite a bit since I last tasted it about five years ago. That makes it a fine choice for drinking now and over the next handful of years. Scents of pipe tobacco, new leather, incense, spice and rose petal are nicely lifted in the bouquet. Soft, open-knit and accessible, the 2014 is all charm. I would prefer to drink this over the next handful of years.
About the producer
Promontory is fast becoming one of the Napa Valley’s most important estates. The property was purchased by Bill Harlan (founder of Harlan Estate) in 2008, with the first vintage – 2009 – released in 2015.