Country: U.S.A.

Region: Central Coast

Vintage: 2016

Cépage: Cabernet Sauvignon (72%); Merlot (12%); Petit Verdot (10%); Cabernet Franc (6%)

Size: 750 ml

Rating(s): 96 (RP); 97 (JD)

"The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello offers a more streamlined, elegant, and ultra-classic style compared to the 2014 and 2015, which are slightly bigger, richer wines. Boasting a deep purple color and beautiful purity in its crème de cassis, blueberry, white flowers, and vanilla bean, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, silky tannins, and perfect balance. It doesn’t have the sheer depth of fruit of some of the blockbuster years, yet makes up for it with its incredible purity, poise, and balance. Relatively approachable for a Monte Bello, it’s still going to see its 30th birthday in fine form."

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) - 02/19