Chateua Montelena Winery

  It's not often that I get to try wines that are 20 years old so--it's also not so often that I get to try wines from the famous winery, Chateau Montelena.  Today is my lucky day.  I am trying Chateau Montelena--1990 Cabernet Sauvignon.  For a brief history, Chateau Montelena put Napa wine on the map during the well known 1976 tasting in Paris.  Four White Burgundies were tasted against six various Napa Chardonnays.  To the French judges' surprise (who were certain one of their wines would win), Chateau Montelena--1973 Chardonnay scored above all the other wines. 

  As for this lovely Cabernet, dried figs, currants, vanilla and creamy oak are just some of the various notes I get on the nose.  They play nicely and continue to open up the longer the wine sits.  Because this wine has so many subtle notes and flavors it is absolutely crucial to decant this wine for several hours before indulging.  The palate is dreamy and structured with soft tannins and enough acidity to hold up to the richest of foods.  Dark and dense cherries, velvety butterscotch and more of that floral vanilla make for a wine you will want to savor forever!  The long finish is exceptional with its' elegant balance and lingering cherry notes alongside smokey tobacco.  By the time you pick up a glass of this wine, you may find yourself in love.

  Food is the last thought in my mind, however, if we must think about pairing this wine with food, I have a couple suggestions.  Filet mignon, veal and an assortment of cured meats come to mind as well as triple cream cheeses and green olives.  We just poured through our last glass of Chateau Montelena--1990 Cabernet Sauvignon, but I have a feeling that we will be getting more of this lovely wine here at Greenlake Wines!  If this wine or any others that I have blogged about interest you, please come visit myself and the rest of our lovely staff here at Greenlake Wines or Seattle Wine Outlet!



Ciao!
Erin