Château Troplong-Mondot

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Troplong Mondot is a little closed to begin, soon unfurling to reveal expanding notions of warm blackberries, wild blueberries and licorice plus hints of smoked meats, black olives, pencil shavings and truffles. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed mouth-coating black fruits, exploding into loads of earthy sparks with a soft, velvety texture from ripe, rounded tannins. It finishes with spectacular freshness and loads of layers.

Tasted blind. Bright ruby colour. Wild hedgerow fruit on the nose, woody stems and dark cherry. Pure red fruit on the palate. Crunchy and vibrant, with good intensity and lift. There is a raw edge and cedary, smoky tannins through the finish, but this is a fine example.

Very perfumed and subtle with crushed currants, smoke and blackberries. Medium to full body. Compressed, round tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows focus and finesse with serious structure for the vintage. It grows slowly on the palate. Really beautiful. Drink after 2022.