Château Montrose Saint Estèphe 2005

Tasted at the vertical in London, the 2005 Montrose came and delivered the goods. This was the best example of the 2005 that I have tasted, perhaps a wine that is going to prove that, the longer wine lovers can resist temptation. It is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 3.5% Cabernet Franc and .5% Petit Verdot picked between 23 September and 9 October. The bouquet is extremely detailed, displaying more red berry fruit compared to the 2010 Montrose that leans towards black. Graphite and cedar emerge with time, even an unusual floral scent that is uncommon with respect to this property, whilst all the time retaining fantastic focus and delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with a ferrous tincture on the entry. There are the first signs of secondary notes (dried leaves and bay leaf), but it is the tannic backbone and the precision that really defines this Montrose at the moment. For certain, it is masculine and structured, yet it has enormous potential, perhaps more than was suggested when it was first released? This is for the long term, but you know that already. Tasted June 2016.

The 2005 from Montrose is straight up sensational, and while young, it offers loads of pleasure today. Cassis, tobacco leaf, damp earth, graphite, and cedar characteristics flow to a full-bodied, thrilling concentrated 2005 that has ultra-fine tannin and a blockbuster finish. Its purity of fruit is off the charts, and while it’s just now starting to turn the corner and enter it plateau of drinkability, it’s going to keep for another 3-4 decades.

This is still a bit dark and brooding, with a charcoal frame around well-steeped fig and black currant fruit. The long finish lets a deep river of smoldering tobacco and warm stone notes course through. Austere and seemingly taciturn, yet thoroughly beautiful. May not be your style, but this is undeniable. -- Blind '01/'03/'05 Bordeaux retrospective (December 2017). Best from 2022 through 2042. 25,555 cases made.