The Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted in Montecillo Vineyard dates from 1964, making them some of the oldest in California. The age of the vines helps explain the wine’s grandeur. Rodrigo Soto, Far Mountain’s winemaker, uses his considerable talents to judiciously extract everything from the grapes without falling into the trap of going overboard. He clearly knows how to put on the brakes. Far Mountain’s 2022 Montecillo flawlessly combines a deep dark fruit character with a savory minerality. You can practically taste the volcanic soil. An alluring bitterness in the finish just adds to its considerable appeal. Open and decant it a few hours before dinner the next time a steak is on the grill.
94 Michael Apstein – July 15, 2026