Chateau Montelena Zinfandel

Brimming with fresh fruit, the aromas are dominated by ripe raspberry and cranberry, leaning southern Italian in style at first. However, after a few minutes, the Zinfandel component becomes more prominent and robust as blackberry jam, hoisin, and savory herbs appear, lending some allure as well as familiarity. It’s the nexus of these disparate, yet harmonious red and dark fruit characteristics that’s emblematic of Montelena wines and our Calistoga vineyard.

The elegance of 2018 comes through immediately on the palate. Laser-focused acidity and strawberry slowly merge with sweet baking spices, dried cherry and earth. The tannins are soft enough to balance the acidity without overwhelming the steady stream of candied fruit. Medium-bodied, the weight of the wine adds depth without the need for extended aging.

As the fruit subsides, the brambly nature of Zinfandel comes to the forefront; first as mint and then as black pepper and tea. The tannins here are more chalky, almost chewy, and complement the subtle notes of smoke and pipe tobacco exceedingly well.