2014 Montlandrie (Castillon)

Denis Durantou is rightly excited about the quality of this wine in 2014 because it`s superb (and great value). Chalky, mineral and fresh, with hints of Asian spices, toasty oak and plump black fruits underpinned by a sappy, almost saline brightness. Hard to believe it`s only a Castillon. 94 points

The Château Montlandrie 2014, Denis Durantou’s Côtes de Castillon vineyard, is a blend of 90% Merlot picked September 24-29 and 10% Cabernet Franc picked October 23-24. Matured in 50% new oak, it has a generous bouquet that takes its time to get going in the glass, eventually revealing blackberry and briary scents. The palate is medium-bodied with just the right amount of fleshiness here to balance the chalky tannins; mulberry and white pepper vivifying the finish. This is a subtle Montlandrie, one imbued with Durantous’s art. 89-91 points