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All pictures shown are for illustration purpose only. Actual label may vary due to changes between vintages.
Product Notes
The Chateau Montelena Estate Zinfandel is an exemplification of Californian winemaking excellence. This luscious red, garnet-hued wine offers a complex nose of ripe blackberries, herbs, and oak undertone. On the palate, it exhibits a vibrant balance of tart red fruit, spice, earthiness, and a subtle smoky note. The structure is refined with well-integrated tannins, inviting an enduring, satisfying finish. A true testament to Napa Valley viticulture, this Zinfandel impresses with its sheer elegance and terroir-driven character. It's an ideal accompaniment to an array of rich meat dishes or simply enjoyed on its own. A marvellous choice for the discerning oenophile.
Tasting Notes
NOSE - Brimming with fresh fruit, the aromas are dominated by ripe raspberry and cranberry, leaning southern Italian in style at first. However, after a few minutes, the Zinfandel component becomes more prominent and robust as blackberry jam, hoisin, and savory herbs appear, lending some allure as well as familiarity. It’s the nexus of these disparate, yet harmonious red and dark fruit characteristics that’s emblematic of Montelena wines and our Calistoga vineyard. PALATE - The elegance of 2018 comes through immediately on the palate. Laser-focused acidity and strawberry slowly merge with sweet baking spices, dried cherry and earth. The tannins are soft enough to balance the acidity without overwhelming the steady stream of candied fruit. Medium-bodied, the weight of the wine adds depth without the need for extended aging FINISH - As the fruit subsides, the brambly nature of Zinfandel comes to the forefront; first as mint and then as black pepper and tea. The tannins here are more chalky, almost chewy, and complement the subtle notes of smoke and pipe tobacco exceedingly well.