Winery Notes: 2018 Montelena Estate Zinfandel
NOSE Fresh and lively, the wine opens e˜usively with raspberry, mint and plum sauce. °e baking spices soon follow, leaning clove initially but with plenty of cedar and vanilla. Still subtle, the ripe fruit elements, mostly cassis and fig at this stage, lurk beneath the surface along with beautiful hints of graphite and toasted sage, awaiting additional time in glass.
PALATE Still very tightly wound, it’s the texture and mouthfeel that drive the palate initially. °e tannins in particular are somewhat coarse but not so angular to overshadow the abundant dark fruit. °e dynamic tension on the midpalate serves to focus and magnify the layers of black cherry, cocoa powder, and black pepper, before turning slightly earthy and dusty. °e structure is pronounced, but still harmonious and well defined.
FINISH It’s in the transition to the finish that the acidity materializes in almost candy-like fashion, a beautiful contrast to the supple tannins. Here the wine’s density shines elegantly, well balanced between smoky, espresso bean and delicate, dried blackberry. It’s the latter that defines the finish at this moment, persistent in length and depth.