Chateau Montelena dates back to 1882 when Albert Tubbs bought 254 acres of property just north of Calistoga. Tubbs planted vines and by 1896 Montelena was the 7th largest winery in California. Winemaking came to an end with the onset of Prohibition.
The current iteration of Montelena can be traced to 1968, when Jim Barrett was brought on as a partner in the winery. Wine production began again in 1972, with Mike Grgich employed as winemaker. Four years later, the Chateau Montelena 1973 Alexander Valley Chardonnay won first place among the Chardonnays and White Burgundies entered in the “Judgment of Paris” wine competition. This was later chronicled in the popular wine movie Bottle Shock.
Crimson in color. 14.1% ABV. Decanted for one hour. Stunning nose of black currants, eucalyptus, graphite and saddle leather. Lush and rich with notable power and concentration. Currants, cassis, tobacco leaves and earth on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish with prominent, silky tannins. James Laube who passed away recently famously panned this vintage as being flawed with TCA. This was my fifth bottle of a six pack bought on release and every bottle has been spectacular. I’m tempted to let my last bottle reach thirty years of bottle age so look for another update from me in 2031.
My rating: 95 points.
Chateau Montelena is truly a throwback to a bygone era. These are wines meant to be cellared, providing less pleasure on release than they will after 10 or more years of aging.
Current vintages are available at retail and can also be purchased at the winery. Expect to pay around $175 per bottle. Back vintages are often available on WineBid for closer to $125.
If I recall correctly, early on this vintage was controversial due to some concerns on the BBs regarding TCA. I have never found a flaw having enjoyed the 2001 all of these years and am glad to have a few bottles remaining in the cellar.
Bulletin boards maybe but IIRC Wine Spectator gave the wine 69 citing TCA.
Nice tasting note, Tom! I’ve tasted the ’01 Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Estate three times over about 15 years and each time I tasted it I scored it 95 points. Same as your rating. I remember Wine Spectator’s 69 rating on this wine. I never detected any hint of TCA on the three bottles I opened. A great wine, in my opinion!
It’s a classic Montelena for sure! Good to hear from you Peter!