Tasting this amazing Californian red is like staring into a deep abyss. The notes of graphite, soy sauce and old balsamic vinegar are underlined by remarkably youthful blackcurrant fruit. On the palate there’s a wonderful combination of great concentration, creamy ripeness and incredible structure. Very long, firm finish with intense, chalky minerality. A cuvee of 72% cabernet sauvignon, 22% merlot and 4% petit verdot. 

The 2009 Monte Bello feels very ripe and lush in its first impression, but the tannins have not softened all that much yet. Game, smoke, licorice and leather gradually open up with a bit of aeration. The 2009 is endowed with tremendous depth of fruit, but the equally imposing tannins need time to soften. (AG) 96+

96 Wine Spectator

A rare fruit bomb Monte Bello, with the structure taking a back seat to waves of gorgeous red currant, blackberry and plum sauce flavors. Features flashes of spice, tea and cedar, showing a lightly mulled edge through the finish that opens nicely in the glass. Very seductive. *Top 100 Wine of 2012*