2021 Monbousquet

Blueberry and lavender aromas with hints of chocolate follow through to a medium body, with round tannins that are lightly firm and deliver lovely flavors. Shows balance and harmony. Drink or hold.

Coming from a miniscule 18 hectoliters per hectare, the 2021 Château Monbousquet is a stunning effort from this team that has real depth and richness while still playing in the fresher, elegant style of the vintage. Cassis, black raspberries, spice, wood, and tobacco notes all give way to a medium-bodied, ripe, vibrant Monbousquet that has fine tannins, perfectly integrated oak, and a great finish. A blend of 70% Merlot and 15% each of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, raised in 50% new oak, it’s going to drink nicely for 10-15 years. This hit 13.67% alcohol and pH of 3.67.

The 2021 Monbousquet has a dense, oaky nose, quite backward with underlying floral scents—a touch of violet. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, still demonstrating the hardness and obduracy I picked up upon at en primeur. Touches of mocha show on the finish. This is a rather unyielding Saint-Émilion, and the question is whether there is sufficient fruit to support it when the tannins eventually soften.