Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Château Montelena

Every once in a while, nature serves up the proverbial “pitch down the middle.” Everyone remembers fondly the wines from 2005 or 2013 when quality was simply there for the taking. at was the case with 2019. Amusingly, as a winemaker, our favorite vintages are typically those that follow a Hollywood-esque storyline with unforeseen challenges, plenty of character development, and of course final victory. With that said, it is just as gratifying to hit that pitch out of the park if the opportunity is there. Moreover, while it’s true that every vintage builds character, growing seasons like 2019 beget gratefulness and reflection in reminding us why Napa Valley in general and the Montelena Estate vineyard in particular are so special. In short, this vintage exemplifies all of the characteristics that one could seek in delicious, age-worthy wine. VINTAGE WEATHER e growing season began cold and wet, typically the harbinger of a late vintage. However, by mid-summer, abundant warm weather had settled in, resulting in very “normal” timing for harvest. Given the plentiful yields, it wasn’t a surprise to experience a divergence in ripening across different soils and clones. at’s to be expected and can be quite beneficial when handled correctly. ankfully, the weather during September cooperated and despite a few periods when patience was necessary, harvest proceeded smoothly and successfully.