Montlandrie 2017

A blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Montlandrie is deep garnet-colored. It pops out of the glass with notes of redcurrant jelly, kirsch, and blackberry preserves, leading to slowly evolving notes of powdered cinnamon, star anise, dusty soil, and tobacco. The medium to full-bodied palate is achingly plush with seamless freshness supporting the bright fruit, finishing long and earthy.

The 2017 Montlandrie was picked from 20 to 26 September for the Merlot and 28 September for the Cabernets, and matured in 40% new oak. It has a small reduction on the nose at the moment, but that will disappear with bottle age. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, very silky in texture with hints of Indian and brown spices towards the elegant finish. Approachable in style, drink this over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030.

Fascinating aromas of white pepper, dark berries, dark chocolate and dried flowers. Medium-bodied, tight and tannic, yet the tannins are fine and angular. Bright acidity. Shows drive and focus. Extremely well done. Better after 2022.

This has great aromatics right off the bat and a creaminess to the fruit. Yet there’s still freshness delivered by menthol notes on the finish, along with tight spices. This is a young Cabernet Sauvignon that is already pulling its weight. Firm, bright, with real finesse and confidence. Good for medium-term drinking. No frost here, which makes winemaker Denis Durantou very lucky as some parts of Castillon were pretty badly hit. Merlot picked 20-26 September, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon September 28. Production this year expected to be 43,000 bottles, 40% new oak used. Drink 2022 - 2032.