1997 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon The Montelena Estate
Community Tasting Note
PerryParkBordeaux wrote:
88 Points
Sunday, August 7, 2022 - Cork was definitely on life support. Typical color for 25 years. Got to admit, I opened this last bottle a few years too late. Still nice, traditional CM, but a little past its prime. Had with a filet and enjoyed this last of my 97's.
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Comment posted by oldwines:
8/7/2022 7:29:00 PM - Just curious how much air you gave this? I have found Ch. Montelena Estate needs lots of air and usually improves significantly with a long decant, even old ones.
Cheers!
“oldwines” aka Dave
www.DTPWineAdvisors.com
Comment posted by PerryParkBordeaux:
8/7/2022 8:11:00 PM - Can not lie. Opened and first pour was within 1 hour. However, still sitting here on the couch with a good half glass. I would say marginal improvement 2 hours later. I might have rushed this wine, but few California cabs are improving after 25 years. Drink the 97's sooner than later!!
Comment posted by oldwines:
8/8/2022 7:41:00 PM - You are right about most but…Two Cali Cabs that do improve beyond 25 years are Ch. Montelena and Ridge Monte Bello. Also the older Spottswoode’s, not the ones that get near 100 points today…like from the 80’s and 90’s. Throw in Dominus and a few others like Dunn Howell Mtn and there are quite a few that do. I have many of them in my cellar. The 1974 and 1978 Heitz MV and Ch Montelena Cabs will stand up to any Bordeaux and I have had them with 40 years on them. Of note all need time to breathe in a decanter. I gave the ‘74 Montelena 3 hours and it was Magnificent. The ‘97 probably needs 4-5 (check out my note from 2017). It is surprising but they explode with flavor and rich complexity when they get to the right point. Not like the modern style very ripe ones.
Cheers!
“oldwines” aka Dave
www.DTPWineAdvisors.com