The deep ruby/purple-colored 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Calistoga Cuvee (75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot) reveals more intensity and flavor out of bottle than it did from cask. Ten to twenty percent new oak was utilized. The sweet nose of black cherries and currants is followed by a medium-bodied red displaying notions of earth, licorice, tobacco, and spice. It is a supple-textured, delicious Cabernet to enjoy over the next 10-12 years. Several years ago Montelena decided to offer a softer, more fruit driven Cabernet Sauvignon called the Calistoga Cuvee. Beginning with the 2000 vintage, the words "Calistoga Cuvee" will be dropped from the label, and the wine will be called Cabernet Sauvignon Napa, in contrast to their flagship offering, the Cabernet Sauvignon Estate. There are 8,000-10,000 cases of the Calistoga / Napa cuvee, all of which comes from leased vineyards in the northern sector of Napa Valley, surrounding Calistoga. The Barretts have been trying to build more flesh and concentration into the wine. Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221