Chateau La Mondotte 2005

Professional Ratings

• 99 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  This fabulous vineyard was never exploited until Stephan von Neipperg took it over in 1996. Situated on a perfectly exposed slope planted in limestone and clay, the vines average 50 years of age, and are cropped at low yields (in 2005, the yields were 20 hectoliters per hectare). As do many of Bordeaux's avant garde garage wines, La Mondotte sees a Burgundian-styled pre-fermentation cold maceration, pigeage, and aging on its lees with no serious clarification prior to bottling. The inky/purple-tinged 2005 reveals gorgeous aromas of roasted herbs, incense, Asian spices, graphite, coffee, and oodles of blackberry and black cherry fruit. The limestone soils provide a freshness and distinctive minerality. This powerful, multidimensional, full-bodied, rich St.-Emilion exhibits a hint of unctuosity (the wine is a blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc), high tannins, fresh, lively acidity, and an exceptionally long aging curve. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040+.
• 97 Wine Spectator
  This has an incredible nose, with blackberry, black licorice and intense coffee and toasty oak character. Full-bodied, with layers of beautiful oak and ripe fruit. Long and voluptuous. Best after 2017.