2018 La Mondotte
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Tasting notes
Diam 30 closure. Tasted blind. Pruney nose verges on overripe. Then somewhat leathery tannins on the palate. A disjunction between nose and palate…? (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
75% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc. Very dark blueish purple. Scented and surprisingly soft tannins at first with some obvious acidity, though the finish is a bit drying. Not the most harmonious but it may well get there. (JR)
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 La Mondotte strolls nonchalantly out of the glass with expressive scents of plum preserves, blueberry compote and chocolate-covered cherries, followed by suggestions of candied violets, licorice, hoisin and black truffles with a waft of ground cloves. It's medium to full-bodied with seriously impressive tension and wonderfully ripe, velvety tannins supporting the generous black fruit preserves layers, finishing with amazing length and loads of panache. It will require a good 4-5 years to unlock some of its finer nuances, then drink this powerhouse over the next 25+ years.
The 2018 La Mondotte melds together the richness of the vintage with the bright, chalky notes that are such a signature of this tiny estate. Inky dark fruit, graphite, crushed rocks, lavender and spice gradually open in a dense, layered Saint-Émilion loaded with personality. I can't wait to see how it ages.