Neatly blending 80% Tannat with 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Chateau Montus is a wine of character and class. Pencil shavings, cedar wood, black cherry, black plum and forest floor are front and centre. Time in the glass brings out iodine and herbal nuances. High levels of polished tannins elegantly frame this streamlined 2019 red that’s totally focused. It spent the first year in barriques (50% new) followed by two years in large 80-hectoliter foudres. 92 points