Montelena’s backward, elegant, complex 2001 Estate reveals a dense ruby/purple color along with foresty, earthy notes intermixed with black currant characteristics as well as sweet tannin. Always a less ripe outlier (although it contains 14% natural alcohol), it will benefit from 2-3 more years of cellaring and should keep for at least 20 more years based on the extraordinary longevity Montelena Cabernet Sauvignons possess. Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221

Medium to deep garnet-brick in color, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate opens with notes of charcuterie, yeast extract and cedar over a core of red and black currant jelly, tobacco leaf and new leather plus a hint of dried sage. Medium-bodied, it has a firm frame of chewy tannins and plenty of freshness lifting the savory/earthy flavors, finishing long and a bit woody.