#ChMontelena Wines

Although Don and I travel to Sonoma for wine, he did take me to Napa to taste wine in that part of the wine country. We didn't go to Chateau Montelena, but we hope to someday! This winery has been in existence since 1882, and the chateau was built in 1886, still standing today. Jim Barrett took over leadership and outfitted the old chateau with modern winemaking equipment. 1972 was the first year for wine to be produced and is now under the direction of Bo Barrett. 

He brought his wines to Salum Restaurant in May for a very nice wine dinner. We had several wines that I want to share with you below. All of my photos are very dark because the restaurant is dimly lit, a very romantic touch.

Chateau Montelena Sauvignon Blanc 2013 $35 "Pale gold, fresh and clean, not tart, with loads of citrus starfruit flavors with a slight spicy finish with a touch of Meyer lemon custard."

Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2011 $26.50 "A bright straw color with aromas of pear and green apple. It has a wonderful creaminess but not heavy. A rich display of nectarine and white peach, with a finish of pear tart and oak integrated throughout."

Our bottles were signed by Bo Barrett!

Chateau Montelena Calistoga Cabernet 2011 $50 "Expressive dark fruit, very good to drink now and 7-10 years from now. Floral and spicy notes are woven throughout." 

Chateau Montelena Zinfandel 2011 $44 "A ruby red color, nose is rich with barrel and toast notes, bright but soft palate with juicy fruits, with a lovely finish of black licorice and dried fruit."

Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet 2006 $165 (yep)! It's good! "A deep garnet red color, on the nose complex notes of blackberry tart, clove cinnamon and cocoa. The mouth has a soft supple entry, youthful crisp acidity, juicy plum and rich red fruits."

 Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet 2009 $120 (Large format bottle 1.5L)

"The nose opens with big black cherry, currants, and plum spice cake. The palate is soft and round, but builds quickly with loads of fine velvety tannin, huge black cherry with red fruits to a rich finish layered with spice.

And last we tasted a Quinta do Noval, Black Port of which I have no information or photo. 

The dinner was fabulous! Thank you sweetheart! It was like a Mother's Day dinner for me!