Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

The wine has a nice dark, garnet Cabernet color. In the glass, the nose is primarily rich aromas of black cherry currant and menthol. It is very much fruit-dominated, and for the first few years its jammy Cabernet-berry and menthol characteristics will predominate - after which the soil's contribution and winemaking, with the hints of new wood will begin to emerge. On entry it delivers a broad mouthful of fruit with cherry and cassis, plus relatively pronounced Cabernet tannins typical, at this young stage, of a fast-ripening crop. Vintages like 2004 do tend to concentrate the juice so every flavor element comes across stronger. Think of this wine as I do, as a good "old school" example of our Napa Valley Cabernet.