Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Napa Valley 2003

94+ points Robert Parker: “A big wine from the Barrett family (14.2% alcohol), this 2003 exhibits earthy black currant fruit, the restrained but intense Montelena style, full body, good richness and impeccable balance, purity and density. The color is a healthy dark ruby/purple and the wine shows lots of cassis. In spite of the restrained aromatics, the palate is rich, full-bodied, substantial and persuasive. This 2003 is approachable now, but it will be even more gorgeous 15, 20 and 25 years from now. This is a heritage wine from this great estate in northern Napa Valley. (Jun 2013)”

Stephen Brook (The Finest Wines of California): “Dense, brambly nose. Voluptuous, highly concentrated, and spicy, this has a good deal of drive, with earthy but not tough tannins to give grip and persistence. (2011)”