WTN: Montelena Horne

[David M. Bueker]

• 1998 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon The Montelena Estate - USA, California, Napa Valley (8/11/2023)
  Like the 1998 Insignia I had a few weeks ago, this Montelena dispels the common opinion of 1998 as a poor vintage in Napa Cabernet. It just wasn’t 1997. Still plenty of deep black cherry fruit, along with a dash of vanilla, and some emerging cedar and leather elements. Moderate tannic structure, so that with the fruit there is still ample life, and enjoyment left in an underrated vintage of this Napa stalwart. Drink now and for many years to come.

That doesn't surprise me at all. I have every vintage from 1991-1995 plus some 2004, but skipped 1998. Nice to know that one worked for them too.

I should do a vertical tasting some time before I finish any vintages.

[David M. Bueker]

I keep putting 2-4 vintages in my blind tastings. The guys love it, but somehow never guess Montelena.

Thanks for the review. I think I still have a few bottles of the 1998 Estate cab kicking around. Good to know there's no rush.

-Paul W.

My cellar inventory says I still have 8 of them from the case I bought. Good to know there's no rush.

-Paul W.

[David M. Bueker]

Might be worth throwing a steak on the grill and having one!