Chateau Montrose 2eme Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 1996

The 1996 Montrose is composed of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. This was not a particularly cool vintage, but it was late. There was rain at the beginning of September, so the Chateaux that decided to wait and harvest late made very good wines. The harvest dates at Montrose were 23 September to 6 October. Medium to deep garnet-brick in color, it erupts from the glass with a powerful perfume of redcurrant jelly, blackcurrant pastilles, and kirsch, followed by hints of cast-iron pan, dried sage, and pencil lead. The medium-bodied palate is taut with muscular fruit and a firm backbone of ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing with epic length and lots of mineral sparks.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent, September 2023 - 98