2019 Dame de Montrose (St-Estephe)

The Merlots were so good this year that most have gone into the first wine, giving this a higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon than usual and making it a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential. Elegant and balanced, with purity and juicy black fruits. It has that savoury Cabernet quality which is very Médocain, this is absolutely one to look out for, packed with estate signature. 30% new oak. 43% of total production. 4% Petit Verdot completes the blend. Lovely new label here also, with rose gold roses across it. 94 points

48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot. Barrel sample. Cabernet expression particularly marked, especially on the palate. Dark fruit with a savoury edge on the nose, the palate lively and lifted with fresher flavours. Dark fruit again with a minerally edge. Firm, dry finish. 17 points