Montrose 2006

The first vintage under new owner Martin Bouygues,who convinced Jean-Bernard Delmas to come out of retirement to produce this wine, the 2006 Montrose is an undeniable success. A blend of approximately two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon, one-third Merlot, and a tiny dollop of Petit Verdot, the most dramatic difference between the 2006, and wines made by the previous administration is that Jean Delmas produces wines with sweeter, silkier tannins, although analytically, they are as high as those found in the great Montrose vintages of the past. The 2006 is extraordinarily elegant and finesse-styled, but it exhibits stunningly concentrated, sweet blackberry and cassis fruit with hints of flowers and minerals. Full-bodied with a savory, expansive mid-palate as well as sweet, noble tannins, this beauty will benefit from 3-4 years of bottle age, and should drink well for 20-25+ years.

Tasted at the château and at a negotiant with consistent notes. The nose is definitely lacking vigour and is woefully muffled. Chewy tannins, lacking the usual sophistication and delineation, harsh, furry tannins. A slight metallic element on the mid-palate, rather directionless. Hard, tannic finish. I just do not understand what is happening in this wine. Tasted April 2007.

Starts off silky and refined. Medium- to full-bodied, with a fine finish, but needs a little more on the midpalate. Attractive spice and currant character.

Jean-Bernard Delmas has instituted a green harvest in the vineyards to get riper fruit and less rustic tannins. yields were lower than average at 41 hl/ha. and in the winery, more gentle handling by using remontage (pumping over) and not délestage (rack and return). 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% merlot. 60% new oak.Very dark crimson. Not that much nose but great sweetness on the palate. Then and only then the dryness of Saint-Estèphe. Not sure there is quite the focus of montrose in its best vintages in the 21st century but presumably the team, under Jean-Bernard Delmas’ direction, will get there. a little moue and soft for montrose. Slightly inky on the finish. Not quite the weight required for this amount of dryness. I feel. surely an interim vintage. ipt 80. there is freshness and vivacity. Energy.