2019 Troplong Mondot

100% Merlot from limestone soil (includes some offcuts from the grand vin). Aged in 60% oak, none of which is new.  Succulent cassis fruit, meaty tones, a touch of leafiness. Gorgeously fine tannins which are so gratifying to drink now, and that fruit is pretty tempting too. Very impressive and drinkable. Excellent clarity and tension with a lovely liquorice tone to finish. (RH)

The 2019 Troplong Mondot is composed and beautifully-focused on the nose, well-defined with vivacious brambly red fruit suffused with minerals and black truffle shavings. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, finely proportioned, fresh yet without huge weight at the back end. This gives it a degree of elegance that is admirable. Charming and with long-term prospects. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.

Tasted blind. Complex but non-flashy aroma. Just a little heavy and lacks lift but ticks the boxes. Hint of yeast-extract savour. Quite long! (JR)