Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 95 points

Montelena's incredible 1991 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is an exceptional wine. It may be the most promising vintage among the bevy of Montelena Cabernets produced over the last two decades, rivaling even the winery's profound 1987. The 1991 is extremely closed and backward, and in need of 5-6 years of cellaring. The color is a dense, opaque purple. The nose offers up Chateau Montelena's tell-tale signature - abundant, pure aromas of cassis, minerals, and spicy oak. Full-bodied, spectacularly rich, and highly extracted, with moderate to high tannin, this is a youthful, exuberant, stunning example of blockbuster Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Its inner core of cassis fruit is something to savor! It should hit its peak around the turn of the century and last for 20 years thereafter. Don't miss it! Tel. (707) 942-5105

Review date: April 1995

Vinous: 97 points

What a thrill it is to drink Montelena?s 1991 Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine that takes hold of all the sense and never lets up. Imposing and intense, the 1991 is simply riveting. The flavors are dark, intense and savory, but it is the wine?s silkiness that stands out above all else. Well-stored bottles will continue to drink beautifully for another decade-plus. 97

Review date: October 2014