2008 Wine

A juicy red, bursting with cherry, raspberry, underbrush and spice flavors. The balance is there, but this needs time to integrate more fully. A woodsy eucalyptus element emerges on the finish, with echoes of sweet fruit. Best from 2014 through 2025.

The 2008 Monte Bello is striking. It is a decidedly muscular Monte Bello endowed with layers of dark fruit. Tobacco, mint, asphalt and crushed rocks develop in the glass, adding tons of complexity and finesse. A long, saline finish rounds things out beautifully. In 2008 the cold growing season stretched into October and the wine definitely has the feel of a cool vintage. The spring frost and the second year of drought conditions lowered yields significantly. Yields were just 1.25 tons per acre on average, but some of the older vineyards came in at less than 1 ton per acre. The balance of fruit, tannin and structure is simply extraordinary, but the wine needs time, most likely lots of it. In 2008 the blend is 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.

"This lovely wine shows the soft tannins and herbaceousness you often find in Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignons. That dried herb taste accompanies blackberry and black currant fruit. It's classic Silver Oak, dry and elegant."

Showcasing the best of our two Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards that define our Napa Valley blend. Lovely dark red color. Ripe black cherry, earth and dried herb aromas. Medium to full body with dense fruit and oak flavors. Chewy, but balanced tannin. Young!