The 2016 La Dame de Montrose is a blend of 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 52% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 11% Petit Verdot. It is often a difficult Deuxième Vin to taste en primeur, and it often meliorates considerably during its élevage. Here, the aromatics took some time to coalesce in the glass: blackberry, graphite and a noticeable oyster shell aroma. The palate is medium-bodied with a gentle grip in the mouth, grainy in texture with very fine balance towards the finish where the quality of the vintage showed through. Doubtless those aromatics will improve and gain harmony by the time it is in bottle, and indeed, when I returned for a second visit I discerned a little more finesse and prettiness on the finish. This is a delightful La Dame. Tasted twice. 90-92 points

A little subdued right now but the fresh, floral edging of the grand vin is also clear here, balanced by juicy black fruit flavours and a similar sense of restraint. The blend of 52% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc represents 42% of the estate`s production. 92 points

As you’d expect from the second wine of Montrose in a top year like 2016, this is a muscular, sinewy, densely constructed wine with lots of smoky, aromatic oak, damson and blueberry fruit and layered, compact tannins. Needs time. Drink 2025-36. 94 points

The 2016 La Dame de Montrose is plump, juicy and seductive from the very first taste. Bright floral notes give the wine lovely aromatic expansiveness. Sweet red cherry, plum, pomegranate and sweet spice notes are all pushed forward. In many vintages, La Dame is a smaller-scale version of the Grand Vin, but in 2016 it is almost unusually polished and sensual, an impression that is enhanced by voluptuous, almost opulent fruit and ripe, silky tannins. In 2016, La Dame is also dominated by Merlot, which no doubt contributes to its personality. Tasted two times. 89-92 points