From dry-farmed, head-pruned Zinfandel vineyards planted in Calistoga, Montelena’s dark ruby-hued 2003 Zinfandel Estate offers a big, briery, cherry, pepper, loamy soil, and earthy-scented bouquet. Enjoy this spicy, rich, full-bodied effort over the next 3-4 years.
At the end of my tastings, Bo Barrett opened a 1986 Montelena (rated 94), and it is still incredibly young, rich, vibrant, and full-bodied. It is a terrific expression of Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon made by a master. It appears to have another 20-25 years of aging potential.
(Release date 3/06)
Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221