Tasted at the chateau, the 1999 Montrose is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot picked between 16 September and 1 October. It has an attractive bouquet with black fruit, iodine, tar and sandalwood: fresh and vibrant with commendable focus. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, masculine as usual for Montrose with a fine grip in the mouth. There is backbone and structure to this Montrose, counterpoised with a keen line of acidity and lovely cedar and pencil box notes towards the almost Pauillac-like finish. Whilst not the most exciting Montrose on the block, the 1999 will satiate those who like classic Saint Estèphe that is conservative, yet would complement whatever is at the dinner table. Tasted September 2016.

The black/purple-colored 1999 Montrose offers up notes of pure black fruits intermixed with minerals, smoke, and earth. It is extremely concentrated, surprisingly powerful and dense, with moderate tannin. Its size, strength, and medium to full-bodied personality are atypical for the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.

Features blackberry and mulberry, with hints of mint on the nose. Medium-bodied, offering fine tannins and a milk chocolate, berry and light vanilla aftertaste. Ready to go.—'89/'99 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2009). Drink now. 18,715 cases made. -JS