2006 Château Troplong-Mondot

Broad-shouldered, well constructed, powerful concentrtation of blackberry pastilles and liqourice root. There is a purity to the fruit expression on the attack, followed quickly by a mid palate shot of melted bitter black chocolate, tar, and tannins that coat your tongue. Come back to this in another decade. Promoted to Premier Grand Cru Classé in this year's 2006 ranking. 100% new oak, Michel Rolland consultant.

Freshness on the nose, dark fruit on the first palate hit but there isn’t much afterwards. Showy and with drying tannins, not a lot of fun. (AWH)

A number of 2006 Bordeaux are showing well today, and that is certainly the case with the 2006 Troplong Mondot. Taking about an hour of air to show at its best, its ruby/plum hue gives way to a classic Saint-Emilion offering ample red and black currant fruits, tobacco leaf, bouquet garni, chocolate, and loads of chalky minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and beautifully textured, this powerful 2006 has surprising structure yet more than enough fruit. Mature, but certainly on the early slopes of its drinking plateau, it’s going to evolve gracefully for another two decades or more.