2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
The winery continues to turn out a strong Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in the Calistoga area. This is a big production item (10,000 cases), and tends to be a good value for a high-class Napa Cabernet. The 2004 has supple tannins, the vintage’s very fruit-forward character, a dark ruby/purple color, and notes of damp earth intermixed with black currant and spice box in a medium to full-bodied, lush style to drink now and over the next 10-12 years. Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(85% cabernet sauvignon) Good ruby-red. Rich aromas of black cherry and menthol. Sweet, dense and lush for this bottling, with black cherry and cassis flavors. Much finer-grained than the 2003 bottling. Finishes with sweet tannins. The production was 8,500 cases in 2004, down from a normal 12,000.
About the producer
Chateau Montelena is a historic Napa Valley estate that rose to global fame after its 1973 Chardonnay won the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Renowned for both its Chardonnay and Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, the winery continues to produce elegant, age-worthy wines with a legacy of excellence.