Rating: 93(+?) - As reviewed by International Wine Cellar in Issue 114, May/June 2004 Saturated, deep ruby-red. Quintessential cabernet aromas of blackcurrant, black cherry, dark chocolate, licorice, black olive, mint and earth, sweetened by some roasted oak tones. Dense, supple and seamless; much more concentrated than the basic Napa Valley bottling but also more pliant from the outset, even if it will need a good six to eight years of cellaring. Old-style, classic Napa cabe...

This wine has a deep, dark color revealing its concentration and extract. Its room-filling fragrance is the pure essence of Cabernet, with ripe cassis and black cherry fruit and the signature earthiness of The Montelena Estate's complex soils. On the palate the wine is full and warm with ripe fruit flavors and layer upon layer of complexity. A velvety-soft texture is framed by a stylish tannic grip, ensuring drinking pleasure now and for many years to come.

Rating: 95/100 - As reviewed by The Wine Advocate in Issue 157

Rating: (88-90) - As reviewed in Wine Advocate # 142 on Aug-02

Rating: 69/100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 11/15/04

Rating for United States-California: 96 (excellent)<br/><br/>Drinkability: too young, let it sit<br/>