Château Montlandrie 2023

Expressive, floral, violet, cassis, blackberry; juicy palate, top structured, the wine shows razor‑sharp tannins, plenty of character, impressive length. Can age for a long time.

An attractive aromatic profile ranges from blackberry and cassis to chocolate brownie and floral notes. The first press of the Cabernet Sauvignon was so impressive that the estate used it for the first time, about 2%, and the impression is of a wine with fine structure yet also savoury, as the blend remains dominated by Merlot. Medium finish, with much class.

The 2023 Montlandrie is another seriously beautiful wine from sisters Constance and Noëmie Durantou. This is the first with a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon, which comes through in the wine's dark persona and strong savory inflections. The wine's depth, textual presence and dynamic personality are all exceptional by any measure.

The bouquet of flowers stands out before revealing its rich cherries, mint, and chocolate that make up the aromatic profile. The medium-bodied palate balances its vibrant energy with a sweet, spicy, and bright red fruit character. There is elegance and length in the red berry finish that makes you want to take another sip afterward, with a pit fruit finish. Give it a year or two in the cellar, and enjoy it for 15 or more years. The wine blends 55% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Cabernet Franc. Drink from 2027-2040.

This is a serious Montlandrie, with far more Cabernet Sauvignon than usual, showing a gorgeously savoury, ethereal quality, with a slow-burn release of black fruits, oyster-shell salinity, raspberry leaf and peony aromatics; precise, a slow burn, enjoyable. Yield of 36 hl/ha. Noëmie Durantou winemaker.