2001 Chateau Montrose, 2nd Growth St. Estephe
Tasted at the château, the 2001 Montrose is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot picked between 24 September and 9 October. It has quite a tightly wound bouquet that either needs a hefty decant or preferably, another 5-6 years in bottle. The scents that can be coaxed are attractive: blackberry, a touch of tar and pencil box, later Indian ink and cedar wood. The palate is medium-bodied with gently gripping tannin, a fine line of acidity and impressive harmony. This gains complexity towards the finish. Tensile, minerally and edgy, this is becoming a highly pleasurable Montrose that will surprise a few people. Sure, it does lack some persistence, however, keep an eye on this. Tasted September 2016.
2001 Chateau Montrose, 2nd Growth St. Estephe
Tasted at the château, the 2001 Montrose is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot picked between 24 September and 9 October. It has quite a tightly wound bouquet that either needs a hefty decant or preferably, another 5-6 years in bottle. The scents that can be coaxed are attractive: blackberry, a touch of tar and pencil box, later Indian ink and cedar wood. The palate is medium-bodied with gently gripping tannin, a fine line of acidity and impressive harmony. This gains complexity towards the finish. Tensile, minerally and edgy, this is becoming a highly pleasurable Montrose that will surprise a few people. Sure, it does lack some persistence, however, keep an eye on this. Tasted September 2016.
Inside Bordeaux
A softer expression than the 2000, and unlikely to last as long, with emphasis on the same walnut and campfire notes that I found in the 1996. Instead its expression is far more delicate, dancing across the palate and giving so much pleasure, with finely spun tannins and finessed raspberry fruits. An elegant and joyful expression of the estate, and an excellent reflection of the vintage. Acidity just a little spiky on the finish, but there is a mouthwatering kick that makes you want to go back for more. Harvest September 24 to October 9.
92 Points / Drinking 2021 - 2040
By Jane Anson / September 2021
Vinous
Bright, saturated ruby-red. Very dark, perfumed aromas of cassis, blackberry, violet and minerals. Bright but youthfully tight, with flavors of black fruits and minerals and moderate density. Austere but not hard. Finishes firm and backward, with very good grip. Extremely unevolved and difficult to assess today.
89-92 Points
By Stephen Tanzer / May 2002
Vinous
Deep red. Reticent aromas of black raspberry, tobacco, licorice and game. Dense and rich but closed, with moderate acids and a backward, medicinal quality. This was difficult to assess last spring and was in a similarly closed stage at the beginning of April. Quite dominated now by its tannins, especially for a 2001, but this wine is hiding impressive texture and depth. The young 2002 may have suaver tannins and more thrust, however.
90-92 Points
By Stephen Tanzer / May 2003
Vinous
(blend based on 62% cabernet sauvignon) Medium red-ruby. Aromas of roasted plum and nutty oak. Fat, sweet, broad and suave, with gentle flavors of redcurrant, plum and game. Aromatic and gentle in the mouth. Long, ripe finish features substantial but sweet tannins. Lovely claret.
92 Points
By Stephen Tanzer / May 2004