Vinepair highlighted 30 of its editorial team’s favorite red wines to reach for this year, including Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 and Gary Farrell Hallberg Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016. Writer Keith Beavers explained that this edited selection includes wines at multiple price points to fit every mood or occasion and that “these are some of the bottles that really made us raise an eyebrow this year.”
The piece offers a brief history on Chateau Montelena, adding that there is gorgeous finesse in the winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon. “The elegance lives in the vibrant acidity winding through this wine, casually pronouncing a whiff of plum and blackberry mingling with cracked black pepper. It all comes together on the palate, with an added cassis vibe and well-woven tannins calling from the edge of your palate. This is a special wine.”
Moving to the Gary Farrell Pinot Noir, Beavers said, “If you were to ask, ‘What is it about Russian River Pinot Noir that sets it apart from the rest of the Pinot on the planet?’ I would shove this wine in your face, then take it away and drink it myself.” He claims he is kidding and that he’d share (jury is out on that,” before describing the wine. “Cherries, cinnamon, and earthy mushrooms rush up and into your senses, leaving you all swoon-y before you sip. On the palate, the wine is dense, crushed velvet, with supple, chewy fruit that soaks into your palate.” He also offers some food pairing ideas.
Read the full story HERE
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