Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate reveals vibrant cassis, crushed black plums and black raspberries notes with hints of fallen leaves, damp soil, cedar chest and charcoal plus a waft of lavender. Medium-bodied with plenty of lively, crunchy black and red fruits, it has a firm frame of ripe, grainy tannins and a long, youthful finish with the oak still standing out slightly. Give it another 2-3 years in bottle and drink it over the next 25-30+.

Bright red-currant flavors give this wine a feeling of lightness and finesse. The tannins have dimension without feeling heavy or extracted, adding tree-bark scents and lasting spice. Clean and generous, this is open in its youth and balanced for current drinking, though it only gets better with air.

Montelena's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is gorgeous. Pliant and supple, the 2015 offers notable density and raciness in an up-front style that will drink well upon release. Succulent red/purplish fruit, spice, new leather and licorice are front and center. A wine of total allure, the 2015 hits all the right spots. Best of all, at $62 a bottle it is one of the best values readers will find in Napa Valley Cabernet. Don't miss it.

The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley release from Montelena has a beautiful bouquet that just jumps from the glass. Lovely notes of crème de cassis, violets, tobacco, and orange blossom all give way to a ripe, medium to full-bodied, sweetly fruited Cabernet Sauvignon that shows the charm of the 2015 front and center. It will keep for 10-15 years.