2021 La Mondotte

Based on 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc that was brought up in 50% new barrels, the 2021 La Mondotte is another floral, perfumed, impressive wine. Red and black raspberries, spring flowers, rose petals, and chalky minerality all define the bouquet, and it's medium-bodied, with fine yet present tannins, terrific balance, and outstanding length. I’d certainly love a glass today, but it will ideally be given 3-5 years of bottle age and will put a smile on your face any time over the following 15+ years.

The 2021 La Mondotte has a satisfying, floral bouquet, with iris flower and peony infusing the black cherry and blueberry aromas. There is just a touch of wet clay in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. Crisp red cherry fruit laced with blood orange leads to a poised, citric finish that lingers in the mouth. Whilst not the best La Mondotte I have tasted, at least it conveys a sense of vitality, and it should drink well for up to 15 years, possibly more.

The 2021 La Mondotte is a dense, potent beauty, with depths of black cherry, plum, gravel, scorched earth, leather, lavender and incense. In 2021, Mondotte is quite savory and brooding, a style with freshness and less opulence than most years. It's also a wine that needs time. I imagine the 2021 will always be a pretty dark Saint-Émilion.