2013 Château Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California

My first trip to Chateau Montelena was a long time ago. I was still in the Air Force and the Vietnam War had just ended. To this date it still remains one of the most influential wine experiences I have ever had. Quite a few people have tasted their Napa Valley and Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon bottlings and they are very good. This Estate bottling of Cabernet Sauvignon is on a whole different level.

Upon opening, the wine reveals a cornucopia of alluring aromas that will create lasting memorable expressions of the moment.  Building anticipation, the wines’ bouquet speaks loudly as you take the first sip. Then, boom, the liquid elixir glides into your mouth and across the edges of your tongue, showing fabulously framed fruit flavors. The perfectly balanced acidity exposes well-integrated firm tannins, which will round out this quintessential Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon experience.

Pairing a bottle of wine like this is easy; enjoy it with something you really love. It does not matter if it’s smoked pork belly, mac and cheese or a wonderful beef wellington. Just make sure your guests are comfortable, and you all have a good time. Enjoy!

Rating: 93 | $160 | 14.1% ABV