1974 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon (HS/MS) French "This shows ripe dark-fruit character

"This shows ripe dark-fruit character with notes of licorice

rich soil tones and smoked meats

"FAY vineyard remains one the great Napa Valley vineyards

lightly spiced in oak

1974 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon (HS/MS) French "This shows ripe dark-fruit character"The first Montelena Cabernet, from purchased Russian River and Alexander Valley grapes, was very much alive, with rich curranty flavours with a hint of balsamic in the surprisingly long finish. Barrett says the high acidity held it together. Very much an old school California Cabernet with fairly rustic tannins, its still enjoyable for its historic importance. This famous vintage put northern California Cabernets on the map as potential competitors