La Mondotte 2018 (750ML)

97+ Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 La Mondotte strolls nonchalantly out of the glass with expressive scents of plum preserves, blueberry compote and chocolate-covered cherries, followed by suggestions of candied violets, licorice, hoisin and black truffles with a waft of ground cloves. It's medium to full-bodied with seriously impressive tension and wonderfully ripe, velvety tannins supporting the generous black fruit preserves layers, finishing with amazing length and loads of panache. It will require a good 4-5 years to unlock some of its finer nuances, then drink this powerhouse over the next 25+ years." 03/21

95 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: The 2018 La Mondotte, matured in 70% new oak, has retained a very focused and well-defined bouquet of intense cranberry, raspberry, sage and light marine scents. It is tightly packed and certainly benefits from decanting. The poised palate is medium-bodied with very pliant tannins, a fine bead of acidity and a silky-smooth texture. It then turns a little spicier, with desiccated orange peel and a background tang of marmalade emerging toward quite a complex and engaging finish. This is a fabulous La Mondotte that deserves cellaring." 03/21

96+ Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2018 La Mondotte melds together the richness of the vintage with the bright, chalky notes that are such a signature of this tiny estate. Inky dark fruit, graphite, crushed rocks, lavender and spice gradually open in a dense, layered Saint-Émilion loaded with personality. I can't wait to see how it ages." 03/21

98 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com: "Blackberry, plum, mushroom and wood undertones. It’s full-bodied with firm, ripe tannins. Savory and fleshy texture on the palate. Well balanced. Flavorful finish with length. Such polish and composure for a young wine. So classy!" 01/21

96 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "This packs in some solid plum sauce, cassis and cherry reduction aromas and flavors, which hold sway throughout while hints of roasted alder, sweet tobacco and ganache fill in. Lovely, buried minerality keeps it all well-supported throughout. Built for the cellar. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2024 through 2038. 1,500 cases made." 03/21

96 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com: "Coming from a cool terroir situated near Pavie Decesse and based on 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, the 2018 La Mondotte reveals a dense purple hue to go with a rich, yet classic, regal, full-bodied style delivering impressive blue fruits, graphite, scorched earth, and liquid violet aromas and flavors. It's concentrated and powerful, yet it's the balance, purity of fruit, and quality of tannins that set it apart. Do your best to hide bottles for 5-7 years, and it's going to evolve for 30+." 03/21