Montrose 2013

Deep ruby, tight garnet rim. Fruity nose with tones of rose petals and refined oak. A juicy palate with fine tannins, green peppercorns, and other savoury spices over a soft, mineral, chalky finish. Some 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot, with quite a bit more Cabernet than the typical 55%- probably that gives more structure and life.

Medium-bodied, this bottle would have fetched a high price if not for the inconsistent RP scores on the vintage (RP87 in 2013, RP90 in 2016, RP93 in 2014).

Okay, it's okay. 2013 could have been a better vintage-we know. But that helps to maintain its low price and is still good enough for the more discerning tasters who require a modern St Estephe at Cru Level- floral, dense, round and prosperous for the class, with fresh fruit and fine tannins. ABV13%.

The other scores and tastings are terrific, such as:

WE95, commending the structure and superb fruit. The dense, dark tones with tarry tannins and juicy fruitiness. Density and fine tannins.

Also, GG95, for the articulate nose with full-on fruit expression supported by fine toasted oak, as well as the soft palate with delicate, silky tannins revolving around racy fruit, reasonably concentrated and refined.

AG94 praises the dimensional burst from the glass: graphite, camphor, incense, tobacco, smoke and game, concentrated, power(sic., a dark, brooding wine that boasts notable depth and tannin, considering its mid-weight structure).

WS92 commended the 'Rock-solid, lightly steeped red currant and damson plum fruit that fills out nicely with air, while singed alder, tobacco, iron and warm pebble notes show in the background' and adds that 'the pure finish has good energy—a great effort for the vintage(edited.)

JS92 praises the structure, silky tannin, excellent acidities and fruit balance; full-bodied, integrated and seamless for the vintage, spicy undertones.