2007 Chateau Montelena Zinfandel Estate
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Tasting notes
The medium ruby-hued 2007 Zinfandel Estate offers a fragrant briery nose revealing notions of pepper, earth, fruit cake and spice. This fully mature Zin is best drunk sooner rather than later given its good but uninspiring constitution. Some time ago Bo Barrett and his dad, Jim, decided that they needed to produce a less expensive, more supple textured Cabernet Sauvignon for consumers and restaurants looking for immediate gratification. That goal has been met very nicely by their Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, which is blended with some Merlot. All the fruit comes from the Calistoga appellation. Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Red-ruby. Blackberry, spices and Tellicherry pepper on the nose, plus a whiff of tarry reduction. Supple and broad, with modest density to its black fruit, licorice and spice flavors. Finishes with notes of chocolate and herbs. Juicy in the mouth but could use a bit more grip. I'm not sure I would have guessed zinfandel.
Good ruby-red. Blacker on the nose than the 2006, featuring blackberry, black pepper, tar and licorice scents. Fresh but inky on the palate, even a bit youthfully brutal, with less early sweetness to the black fruit and licorice flavors. Today I find this a bit medicinal. This bears retasting from bottle.
About the producer
Chateau Montelena is a historic Napa Valley estate that rose to global fame after its 1973 Chardonnay won the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Renowned for both its Chardonnay and Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, the winery continues to produce elegant, age-worthy wines with a legacy of excellence.