Recently I’ve had quite a few people ask me what is my favorite vintage of Montelena Estate Cabernet.
One of the great things about working at Montelena is that, as an employee, I’ve gotten a chance to taste almost ever vintage of Estate Cabernet since we started making it in 1978. I’ve definitely tasted all the way back to 1983 and I think I’ve tried a few of the even older ones as well. And, when I tell people this, they always ask me which one is my favorite. My gut response is that they are all great wines. But, I do have to admit that I have a few favorites – vintages that I think are truly exceptional. So far, my two favorite vintages are the 1998 and the 2002; in my opinion, these are the best wines we’ve made. But, I also always wonder, what you think.
What is your favorite vintage of Montelena Estate Cabernet? I would love to know.
Connor I haven’t had the chance to taste as many vintages as you so I can only speak to what I’ve tasted. I first tasted Chateau Montelena when I had a 1979 in a restaurant about 30yrs ago. I won’t count that because I don’t have any notes, but I was impressed enough that I still have the bottle. I started collecting with the 1995 vintage but haven’t touched any of the 2002-2007 vintages which are tucked away in our cellar. So that leaves 1995-2001 as the universe of my Montlena vintages. Of those, 1997 and 2001 are my clear favorites with 1998 close behind. My ‘bucket’ list of older vintages I want to taste includes ’83 ’87 ’91 and most of all, 1994. Cheers!
Fred…That’s a great story and you have an impressive library. Invite me when you do your grand vertical tasting
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