2021 Montrose
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Tasting notes
Saint-Estèphe seemed to have better, drier weather conditions than other appellations further south in the Médoc. The vineyards of Montrose benefited from an Indian summer from late August through to October, the estate comparing it to 2014, which was a huge success for them. The nose is lightly scented with classic Saint-Estèphe earthy notes and lovely peppery spice from high-quality oak. There is a lovely sense of purity to the aromatics and with blackcurrant and blackberry fruit that unfurls on the palate. There is an impressive richness to the mid-palate, while the tannins build, becoming firmer, dense and layered on the finish. Ch. Montrose has certainly captured an added level of power and energy to the wine without losing its balance (and at only 13.1% alcohol). Aged in 60% new oak. Blend: 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Critic scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Blackish crimson. Not very pure or direct on the nose. Muted – is this a good thing? There is concentration here but nothing other-worldly. Just a bit of heat on the end. Seems to lack a bit of freshness in this context. But the tannins have been treated very well. (JR)
62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Dark garnet with quite a bit of evolution at the rim. A much simpler nose than most vintages. Straightforward cassis and the fruit struggling to counteract the acidity. Bone-dry finish expresses the commune but is a tad dominant. Very minerally. (JR)
The Grand Vin 2021 Château Montrose checks in as 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Petit Verdot, raised mostly in new oak. It's an absolute classic expression of this terrior, offering pure cassis and assorted darker currant fruits that give way to more damp earth, violet, and leafy tobacco nuances. With medium-bodied richness, perfect integration of its acidity, tannins, and oak, beautiful mid-palate depth, and a great finish, it's going to benefit from 4-6 years of bottle age, and I wouldn't be surprised to see this still showing beautifully at age 30. It's a remarkable wine in this challenging vintage.
About the producer
Ch. Montrose is one of two Second Growths from Saint-Estèphe and one of the most consistent producers in Bordeaux. The wines from this property are both elegant and powerful, and some of the Médoc's most age-worthy .