"The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve’s dense ruby/purple color is followed by smoky black currant fruit notes intermixed with loamy soil and forest floor scents. A larger-framed, substantial wine with velvety tannins as well as a well-formed personality, it, too, should be drinkable upon release and last for 15-20 years." 92-95 pts, reviewed by Robert Parker.

"Montelena’s 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate wraps around the palate with serious depth. Even with all of its intensity, the 2009 has a silkiness that makes it incredibly delicious at this early stage. Red berries, flowers, tobacco and sweet herbs all flesh out on the generous, radiant finish. While many 2009s are a bit tight today, Montelena’s 2009 Estate is showing very nicely, although it is keeping some cards close to the vest. I imagine the 2009 will start to enter its prime drinking window around age 8-10 and drink well for at least another decade beyond that."