2010 Chateau Montelena Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon

Bright, dark red. Reduced, medicinal aromas of redcurrant and tobacco show a clenched quality today. Then surprisingly supple if a bit reduced on the palate, with good depth and even a creaminess of texture to the medicinal flavors of cassis, bitter chocolate, mocha and herbs. Finishes with fairly smooth tannins and lingering notes of herbs and black olive. (ST)

Dense and chewy, if a bit unbridled, with a core of dark berry, licorice, crushed rock, dried herb and toasty cedar. Best to give this one time in the cellar. (JL, Web-2013)