Montelenas 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate wraps around the palate with serious depth. Even with all of its intensity, the 2009 has a silkiness that makes it incredibly delicious at this early stage. Red berries, flowers, tobacco and sweet herbs all flesh out on the generous, radiant finish. While many 2009s are a bit tight today, Montelenas 2009 Estate is showing very nicely, although it is keeping some cards close to the vest. I imagine the 2009 will start to enter its prime drinking window around age 8-10 and drink well for at least another decade beyond that. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.93+ points from Robert Parker, The Wine AdvocateWinery Notes:Nose: Opens with big black cherry, currants, and plum spice cake notes. Underpinning all that fruit are layers of smoke, anise, and very subtle oak tones.Palate: The palate entry is soft and round, but builds quickly with loads of fine velvety tannin, huge black cherry, and red fruits.Finish: Red fruits persist through to a rich finish layered with spice and hints dried fruit.
