In the glass, the 2012 Chardonnay bursts with aromas of ripe peach, green apple, and honeydew. Next comes a touch of vanilla, lavender and orange blossom, with an underlying note of star jasmine. The concentration of the wine is evident on the palate: the rich viscosity is cut by bright acid and layers of kiwi, grapefruit, and soft minerality. The finish is pure bliss with a touch of sweet oak and lemon curd that just doesn't quit.
One look at the dense crimson ruby color and you know that this is a big wine. 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 through to a rich finish layered with spice. A firm core of acid and barrel spice integrate beautifully across all layers, enhancing the structure and balance of this massive but approachable wine. The Estate vineyard is comprised of varied terrain, from flat to steep hillsides. The vineyard gently slopes downward towards its base, where a small patch of sedimentary soil was deposited by the settling of an ancient ocean or lake. Extending out from the Napa River is the alluvial soil, the most prevalent type on the property. In the back and outside areas of the vineyard are volcanic soils, formed by ancient lava flows caused by tectonic uplifting.
The 2013 Montelena Sauvignon Blanc is brilliant and pale gold in color with aromas of honey, orange blossom, warm oak, and caramelized bananas. On the palate, this wine is fresh and clean with a wonderfully juicy mouthfeel and complexity throughout. The acidity is firm but not tart. This Sauvignon Blanc is loaded with bright citrus, tropical starfruit, and a rich, slightly spicy finish with a touch of Meyer lemon custard.