Chateau Montelena, The Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2018

96 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous  - “Impressive, elegant, poised … dark red/purplish berry fruit, mint, sage, spice, mocha and dried flowers open first, followed by a kick of vibrant acids that lends notable energy throughout.”

In 1972 Jim Barrett, son of a Waterford immigrant, purchased the historic 100 hectare property which lies 3.5 kilometres north of Calistoga, at the base of Mount St. Helena. Under Jim Barrett’s guidance the château’s vineyards were replanted and a modern winery was installed and in 1976 his vision was rewarded by winning the famous ‘Judgement of Paris’ when his Chardonnay beat 4 white Burgundies and five other Californian Chardonnays in a blind tasting that rocked the wine world.