On the nose this offers up blackcurrant, pencil lead, a very light background of tobacco leaf, and the tiniest hint of brown sugar melted in butter. On the palate, blackcurrant, tobacco leaf, pencil lead, and a backbone streak of minerality all lead. The fruit gets a bit darker on the mid-palate, with blackcurrant moving to elderberry and blackberry, the pencil lead growing and adding cigar box notes. Minerality, well-balanced acids, and very fine tannins provide the background. The finish lingers long and well. Drink with filet or a plate of in cheeses. Very highly recommended. DH
WHO: Chateau Montrose
WHAT: Bordeaux Blend
WHERE: St. Estephe, Bordeaux, France
WHEN: 2001
HOW MUCH: $162
