Chateau Montelena Cabernet, 2009, Calistoga, Napa Valley, California

The 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. The palate entry is soft and round, but builds quickly with loads of fine velvety tannin, huge black cherry, and red fruits that persist throughout. A rich finish layered with spice and dried fruit. A firm core of acid and barrel spice integrate beautifully across all layers, enhancing the structure and balance.