2015 Montlandrie

The 2015 Montlandrie, matured in 45% new oak, has a very succinct and cohesive bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, briary and light espresso scents. The wood is beautifully assimilated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, perfectly pitched acidity, a little savory and dried blood surfacing toward the finish to complete a glorious wine that fulfills its promise from barrel. Superb. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.

Flowers, black licorice, blackberries and minerals all rise to the surface. Transparent. Medium to full bodied, polished and ultra-fine. This is a wine guided for a long time by the owner of Pomerol’s l’Eglise Clinet. Regal. Drink now or hold.

The Durantou stable is always reliable, but soars in 2015, and this Castillon shows what can be achieved outside of the usual top-line appellations. The difference here is the quality of the fruit extraction - what you get is juicy and intense fruit which is extremely poised and well held together, with a lick of salinity on the finish; persistent without being overpowering. Prices have risen recently, but it remains great value considering the quality. Not a blockbuster Castillon, but has a quiet power all of its own - what a brilliant wine.