2023 Mondot

Coming from a mix of designated parcels with mostly clay soils, the 2023 Château Troplong Mondot Mondot is based on roughly 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc and was brought up in once-used barrels and tank. Classic aromatics of leafy herbs, damp earth, chalky minerality, and sappy flowers give way to a juicy, vibrant Saint-Emilion that has ample darker berry fruits, medium body, a supple, delicious, balanced mouthfeel, and integrated tannins. This balanced, supple, ready-to-go beauty will keep for a decade. Drink 2026-2035.

The 2023 Mondot is pure seduction. Silky tannins and bright, vibrant red-toned fruit are nicely pushed forward. The 2023 was aged in equal parts tank and used French oak barrels. It’s a gorgeous second wine.

The 2023 Mondot includes 10% Cabernet Franc this year and comes from younger vines. It has an open and expressive nose, a mixture of red and black fruit, pine needles and light black truffle scents. The palate is medium-bodied with quite fine tannins on the entry. It’s actually more structured than I expected, which is not a bad thing, with the limestone terroir lending a slightly chalky texture toward the finish. Worth seeking out. N.B. This is not yet released on the market.