The non-estate Cabernet Sauvignon, which is now completely sourced from Calistoga vineyards, provides a fine introduction to the Montelena winemaking style. Normally Bo Barrett includes 10-15% Merlot in the blend, and these wines often age for 10-15 years. The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is the sexiest of the three most recent vintages. A soft, deep ruby/purple-tinged offering with loads of black currant fruit as well as hints of damp earth, licorice, and underbrush, this silky-textured, opulent Cabernet Sauvignon will provide delicious drinking over the next 10 plus years. At the end of my tastings, Bo Barrett opened a 1986 Montelena (rated 94), and it is still incredibly young, rich, vibrant, and full-bodied. It is a terrific expression of Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon made by a master. It appears to have another 20-25 years of aging potential. Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221

The non-estate Cabernet Sauvignon, which is now completely sourced from Calistoga vineyards, provides a fine introduction to the Montelena winemaking style. Normally Bo Barrett includes 10-15% Merlot in the blend, and these wines often age for 10-15 years. The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is the sexiest of the three most recent vintages. A soft, deep ruby/purple-tinged offering with loads of black currant fruit as well as hints of damp earth, licorice, and underbrush, this silky-textured, opulent Cabernet Sauvignon will provide delicious drinking over the next 10 plus years. At the end of my tastings, Bo Barrett opened a 1986 Montelena (rated 94), and it is still incredibly young, rich, vibrant, and full-bodied. It is a terrific expression of Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon made by a master. It appears to have another 20-25 years of aging potential. Tel. (707) 942-5105; Fax (707) 942-4221