The 2011 Montrose has a well-defined bouquet with blackberry, bilberry, cedar and light tobacco scents. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, grainy tannins. Yes, a little green around the edges, but there is satisfying freshness on the finish, and it has a lilting quality. I have to say, after the brilliant Montrose in the previous vintage, this is a bit of a let down. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting. 89 points

The dark ruby/purple-colored, slightly austere and angular 2011 Montrose possesses a more masculine style with firm tannin, medium body, and cassis, black currant and earth notes. The wine tails off slightly on the palate leaving an acidic, tangy character. It will benefit from several more years of cellaring, and should last for 15+ years thereafter. 89+ points

As in any of the leading Médoc this year, the percentage of cabernet has never been so high in Montrose . 63% cabernet sauvignon and 12% cabernet franc made up by 22% merlot and 3% petit verdot. Rich garnet hue. Refine clean nose of mature fruit. Plump, mouth-filling and voluptuous palate offering present and well-coated tannins. Particularly layered and sappy finish followed by a great length. The estate was hit by hail - though not severely - but has coaxed the very best it could out of the year and openly says the final 2011 blend has already been assembled. 91 points