The 1998 Monte Bello Proprietary Red (a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc) exhibits a ripe nose of sweet oak intermixed with blackberries and cassis. It is firm and medium-bodied, with astringent tannin in the finish. Winemaker Paul Draper's comments on the back label are usually modest, but it would appear he is much higher on this vintage than my notes suggest. The 1998 Monte Bello needs 4-5 years of cellaring, and should develop along the lines of an austere Bordeaux vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020+.
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