97 / 100 Robert Parker A worthy successor to the profound 2013 and the fruit of the earliest harvest on record at this address, the 2014 Monte Bello is still quite youthfully expressive, wafting from the glass with an exuberant bouquet of minty dark berries, plums, black cherries, cigar box and a nicely integrated framing of new oak. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, deep and intense, with a rich chassis of structuring tannins, which are currently largely concealed in a succulent core of fruit, and bright balancing acids. In profile, it's structurally more open-knit and giving than the massive 2013, and I suspect it will reach its plateau sooner, but it should enjoy over three decades of longevity. The blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, and it attained 13.5% natural alcohol. "The drought had a positive effect on concentration," observed winemaker Eric Baugher when we corresponded shortly after harvest, adding that "the wines are opaque in color, with rich tannins and marvellous fruit." Four years later, that remains an accurate characterization of the 2014 Monte Bello. Interim End of May 2018, The Wine Advocate
88 / 100 Wine Spectator Shows off a wild, savory herb and underbrush character that moves in different flavor zones but comes up short on focus and lacks a core flavor theme. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2028. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 5,000 cases made. https://www.winespectator.com/wine/detail/source/search/no..
17.5 / 20 Jancis Robinson 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot.
Two rather different bottles, one rather skinny and dominated by acidity and the other plumper, riper and more forward. The note refers to the latter. Lots of ripe fruit with a black olive overlay and a very dry finish. Really quite sophisticated and tightly wound. Already promising completely even if very young. https://www.jancisrobinson.com/tastings/search?keywords=ri..
