Château Montlandrie 2011

The succulent, fleshy plum and boysenberry fruit is augmented by dark ganache hints and a smoldering tobacco note that emerges on the finish. Best from 2015 through 2021. 2,210 cases made.

This shows lots of blueberry and mineral character with hints of chalk. Medium to full body, chewy tannins and a polished, refined texture. Needs another two or three years to soften.

The 2011 Montlandrie has a high-toned bouquet with fleshy black cherry and blueberry fruit, well defined with a pastille-like purity. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle grip, quite dry tannins, very old school in style with a conservative, cedary, slightly bretty finish. I find this a bit short. Maybe this is now in decline? Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting.

From 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, planted on limestone soils and aged in 50% new oak, the wine offers oak, red berries and stone with medium body and a bright red berry finish. 85-87 pts

Deep purple, dense at the core, with garnet glints at the rim. Direct bouquet with lovely cherry tones and subtle inky hints. Finely grained, medium-weight palate with fairly good support.

(75% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc) Spicy, peppery bouquet, raspberries, raspberry seeds, smoke. Fresh, medium-bodied palate with medium fruit, fine sandy tannins, spicy aromatics, dry finish. Can still improve. 16/20 2018 - 2026

A blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, the 2011 Montlandrie has a deep garnet color, with a touch of brick. It slowly awakens in the glass with notes of mossy tree bark, blackberry preserves, aniseed, and clove oil, plus emerging wafts of dried lavender and tobacco leaf. The full-bodied palate is laden with maturing flavors of black fruit and fragrant earth, supported by impressive freshness and velvety tannins, finishing long and opulent.

A beautiful, dense wine with the charm of Merlot and a top-class Cabernet Franc. Exceptional value for money.

Dark, intense color. Fruity nose with a slight meaty note. Caressing, flavorful palate, very fruity and pleasant, with medium body and length.