Dame de Montrose 2020

Blackcurrants with crushed stone and slate. Lead pencil. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and precision. Fantastic length and focus. One of the best Dames I have had. Organically grown grapes. 48% merlot, 46% cabernet sauvignon and 3% petit verdot and cabernet franc.

The 2020 La Dame de Montrose has slightly more alcohol than the Grand Vin. It has a lovely bouquet with predominantly black fruit, cedar and light briny scents, impressive focus and intensity for a Deuxième Vin. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle grip on the entry, quite fresh considering the warmth that summer, fine mineralité with a saline finish. There is a pleasant strictness at the moment, a very capable La Dame that should give 15 years of drinking pleasure.

The second wine of Château Montrose, the 2020 La Dame De Montrose is terrific, with a sunny, forward, medium-bodied style as well as lots of ripe red and black fruits, notes of sweet tobacco, sandalwood, and spice, supple tannins, and outstanding length. Open and complex, it’s going to shine for 15 years if well-stored. The blend is 49% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, and the balance Cabernet Franc, checking in at the same alcohol as the Grand Vin, 13.4%. (Drink between 2023-2038)

Lithe and fruit-driven with dark-fruit, mint and herbal notes. Tannins finely etched. Nothing forced. Natural feel and flavour. Clean, dry finish.