TN: 1994 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon The Montelena Estate

T_Altmayer · August 29, 2011, 3:17pm

1994 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon The Montelena Estate - USA, California, Napa Valley (8/29/2011)
After about an hour, this really opened up nicely. Pretty fruit, nice structure and a beautiful balance. Personally, this wine is at its peak – at least to my taste – but I’m sure it will continue to age gracefully for a long while. Always been one of my favorite producers and this wine is no exception. (94 pts.)

Andrew_Demaree · August 29, 2011, 3:58pm

I agree that this is a beautiful wine. Had a bottle (not mine, but purchased on release) this summer and ours was very nice, even “lush”, with a minimal amount of air. I didn’t get back to it after the intial glass, but did hear from two of the tasters that it started to fade more quickly than expected. Did you see that at all with yours?

Joe_Hauck · August 29, 2011, 4:50pm

The '92 I had earlier this year was fantastic and didn’t last long enough to fall apart.

T_Altmayer · August 29, 2011, 4:56pm

It was opened about 2 hours before finish and didn’t notice any fading. My experience with Montelena is that they will easily last 25 years, but generally I like them between 15 and 20.

Howard_Cooper · August 29, 2011, 5:39pm

If you guys get a chance to try the 91, it is really good. I have some 1994, it may be time to open one.

Neal.Mollen · August 29, 2011, 5:45pm

Maybe my favorite CA cab producer. Just love this wine.

B_Buzzini · August 29, 2011, 5:49pm

Might take one down weds. That or '97? Anyone have a '97 recently?

Bob_Kaminski · August 29, 2011, 7:50pm

97 could use some time IMHO -I had one last year, not closed, but a bit one dimensional. The 94’s need to be consumed soon based on the last 3 I tried. A cold cellar, maybe you have more time.

Andrew_Demaree · August 30, 2011, 3:08am

The '91 might be my all time favorite wine.