Chateau Montelena Zinfandel 2021 offers a refined take on one of California’s most iconic grape varieties, crafted by a winery with a legendary Napa Valley pedigree. While Zinfandel is often associated with bold, jammy styles, Montelena’s approach is all about elegance, structure, and balance. Sourced from carefully selected vineyards, the 2021 vintage benefits from a long, even growing season, producing fruit with vibrant acidity and layered complexity.

In the glass, it reveals a deep ruby colour and an inviting bouquet of ripe blackberry, raspberry, and cherry, intertwined with hints of black pepper, dried herbs, and subtle oak spice. The palate is medium to full-bodied, with juicy red and black fruits framed by fine tannins and a refreshing lift that carries through to the long, savoury finish. Equally at home with barbecued meats, rich pasta dishes, or aged cheeses, this Zinfandel is a versatile and food-friendly expression of Napa Valley.

Chateau Montelena is one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated wineries, famed for its pivotal role in the 1976 “Judgment of Paris” when its Chardonnay triumphed over top French wines and helped put California on the world wine map. Founded in 1882 at the base of Mount St. Helena, the estate is instantly recognisable for its ivy-covered stone château and its picturesque grounds, complete with a tranquil jade-green lake.

Today, under the stewardship of the Barrett family, Chateau Montelena continues to craft wines of elegance, balance, and longevity. While their Chardonnay remains iconic, the winery is equally respected for its refined Cabernet Sauvignon and distinctive Zinfandel, each reflecting the character of Napa’s diverse microclimates. Combining a deep respect for tradition with a commitment to sustainable vineyard practices, Chateau Montelena produces wines that stand the test of time and remain benchmarks for quality in California winemaking.

Zinfandel (100%)

Napa ValleyNapa Valley is California’s most famous wine region and one of the world’s premier destinations for fine wine. Located just north of San Francisco, the valley stretches for around 30 miles, flanked by the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Range to the east. Its diverse microclimates, varied soils, and consistent sunshine create ideal conditions for producing wines of exceptional quality and character.

While Cabernet Sauvignon is Napa’s flagship variety — known for its richness, structure, and ageing potential — the region also excels with Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Zinfandel. Napa’s 16 sub-appellations (AVAs), such as Rutherford, Stags Leap District, and Oakville, each bring distinctive expressions to the glass, from plush, fruit-forward styles to more restrained and elegant bottlings. Combining a pioneering spirit with a commitment to excellence, Napa Valley continues to set the standard for American wine, attracting wine lovers from around the globe.