Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Winemaker Notes

The 2006 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has an enticing deep garnet red color in the glass. On the nose there are complex notes of blackberry tart, clove, cinnamon, and cocoa, along with dried black currants. The mouth has a soft supple entry, youthful crisp acidity, juicy plum and rich bright red fruit notes, all complemented by loads of fine grain tannin and an under-layer of dried black currant.

Critical Acclaim

94 Jeb Dunnuck

The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate offers a slightly more perfumed, complex nose with its cassis, currants, mint, and spring flowers. This pretty, elegant wine has fine tannins, nicely integrated acidity, a layered, balanced style, and a great finish.

93 James Suckling

This has a leafy currant, mint, and raspberry nose. Complex and very pretty. Full bodied and very firm, with super fine tannins and a long, long finish. This is subtle and complex, but needs another three years.

91 Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate appears to have completely shut down, not surprising as Montelenas Cabernet Sauvignons typically need plenty of time. The 2006 reveals medium to full body, austere tannins and lots of red and black fruits, dusty, loamy soil undertones and a hint of herbs/tobacco leaf. Give it another 4-5 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 20+.
91+ points.