Château Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Napa Valley, California

2018 vintage – 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc. Aged 16 months in French and Eastern European oak barrels, 26% new. Nose: Dark garnet, nearly violet in the glass, the aromatic intensity of this wine is irresistible. Fresh berries and dried cherries comingle with bergamot, lavender, mint, gunpowder, and sage without a single element dominating another. Palate: Fresh and dynamic, with cranberry, cola, and raspberry jam. e acidity is laser focused, the spine pulling the layers of flavor into harmony with the wine’s supple, yet dense, structure. The tannins here serve to elevate not overwhelm the kinetic balance of texture, ripeness, and vineyard character. Finish: Toasted hazelnut and vanilla emerge as the wine leans savory with mushroom, black pepper, and cedar. The Merlot in the blend really shines here with rhubarb, cassis, and velvety softness.