2024 La Dame de Montrose, Saint-Estephe

This has dark fruit character, leafy but nuanced and sculpted, lovely savoury mouthwatering quality on the finish, At Montrose they did some leaf removal even in early June at fruit set, and left grass throughout the vineyard all the way through the season to increase competition, and did some tidying up at the very beginning of veraison to remove any that were clearly a little behind schedule - so basically just had to be extremely reactive at all times. The yield was 38hl/h after farming entirely organically. Harvest 23 September to 8 October. 20% large oak casks, 15% new oak.

Orange blossoms, flowers, red berries, and black cherry aromas show up with ease. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, vibrant, fresh, long, and spicy. The fruits are clean, energized, and lively. This is going to offer its significant charms shortly after release. The wine blends 73% Merlot, 20 Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. 13.5% ABV. Drink from 2027-2040.

If the grand vin is built for the ages, the 2024 La Dame de Montrose plays a different hand, emphasizing suavity and charm. Offering up notes of blackcurrants, raspberries, violets and licorice, it's medium to full-bodied, ample and suave, with supple tannins, lively acids and a seamless, complete profile. It's a blend of 73% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc that sees a more reductive élevage than the grand vin.

The 2024 La Dame de Montrose—raised in 15% new oak, 20% foudres and 2% amphora—has a straightforward, relatively light bouquet with blackberry, hints of black olive and light gravelly scents. The palate is medium-bodied with sharp acidity on the entry, balanced but just a little austere towards the second half. It needs to muster more fruité on the finish, but at least displays freshness and classicism.

73% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Juicy, open and round but lacks some concentration. Fine tannins and freshness but the acidity a touch severe. (JL)