2006 Chateau Montrose

ABOUT THE WINE
Originally a hunting estate owned by Alexandre de Segur, known as La Lande de l'Escargeon, the estate that would come to be known as Montrose passed into the ownership of Etienne Dumoulin in 1778, whose son built the chateau. The name was derived from the heather-clad hills, which would turn pink when the flowers were in bloom; sailors on ships passing through the Gironde Estuary called the hill upon which the chateau was built la Mont Rose. By 1815 the estate was regarded as one of the finest in Saint-Estephe. Many owners later, the estate was purchased by the Bouygues brothers in 2006; renovations have followed, including work to expand the percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon planted.

TASTING NOTES
Dense colour, with red berries and currants on the nose. The palate is rich and potent, with raspberry, strawberry and liquorice; excellent structure and ageing potential. Cassis, tobacco and earth on a long, elegant finish. This is drinking very well now. Tasting notes vary, however; this is an enigmatic, unpredictable vintage for Montrose, but the quality is undeniably there.

FOOD PAIRING
Best with rich stews and beef-dishes.

FRIARWOOD SAYS
This will age well until 2030.