Wines Saint-Estèphe Château Montrose - Saint-Estèphe (Grand Cru Classé) - 2018

Viniou Reviews

The 2018 Château Montrose from the Saint-Estèphe appellation in Bordeaux is a remarkable example of a Grand Cru Classé. This red wine, part of the esteemed Médoc sub-region, exemplifies the complexity and balance typical of this prestigious area. The blend, known as Cuvée Saint-Estèphe, often includes a careful selection of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and sometimes a touch of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm and dry growing season which led to a wine with concentrated flavors, ripe tannins, and excellent aging potential. The terroir of Saint-Estèphe, characterized by its gravelly soils over a clay and limestone subsoil, provides the wines with a robust structure and enduring minerality, further enhancing their capacity to develop over time.

The Bordeaux region, and Saint-Estèphe in particular, enjoys a maritime climate moderated by the nearby Gironde estuary. This climate supports a long growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and develop deep and complex flavors. The history of Bordeaux wines is rich, with the classification of 1855 setting many Médoc châteaux on the path to international acclaim.

This wine pairs beautifully with dishes that can match its intensity and structure. Consider classic French cuisine such as duck confit or coq au vin, which complement the wine's depth. A hearty beef stew or lamb roasted with herbs can also highlight the robust tannins and dark fruit flavors of the wine. For a regional touch, enjoy it with a Bordelaise sauce made with shallots, bone marrow, and red wine reduction.

For serving, it's best to decant the wine to allow it to breathe and fully express its aromatic profile. The ideal serving temperature is between 16-18°C to appreciate the nuanced bouquet and the luscious texture on the palate. This wine is perfect for both immediate enjoyment and further aging, rewarding those who have the patience to let it evolve in their cellar.