Back at the (wine) desk after a few days off, I’ve been looking at a few new release Bordeaux.  But before I write those up, here is a delicious Château Montrose from the 2001 vintage.  As a left bank Bordeaux vintage, the 2001s were in the shadow of the 2000s, but time is proving this to be a very good vintage on my tastings.  The 2001 Montrose is an exercise in classic St Estèphe and it comfortably wears its status as a pinnacle of the St Estèphe appellation.  Its aromatics are textbook blackcurrant and cedar.  The palate has wonderful length, and a tannic structure and balance suggesting that this Montrose, while starting to enter its drinking prime, will cellar well for another decade.  More St Estèphe please.

Rating: Outstanding
Price: Best not to ask
Read more: http://www.chateau-montrose.com/en/
Tasted: 2016