2005 La Mondotte
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Tasting notes
Just about pure perfection, the 2005 La Mondotte checks in as 55% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, from tiny yields, that was raised in a mix of new and used barrels. This still youthful, deep ruby-hued beauty boasts stunning notes of red and black fruits, white truffles, dried flowers, and assorted, spicy, tobacco-like nuances. Absolutely massive on the palate, it’s full-bodied, has beautifully polished, integrated tannins, a huge mid-palate, and a great, great finish. This majestic, regal, absolutely brilliant Saint-Emilion will continue evolving gracefully for another two decades.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
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The 2005 La Mondotte has softened considerably since I last tasted it a few years ago. Clean veins of limestone-infused minerality run through a core of inky dark fruit, showing just how distinctive this tiny Saint-Émilion property is. Crème de cassis, chocolate, new leather, licorice, spice, lavender and menthol open with a bit of coaxing. This modern, exotically lush Saint-Émilion is a real beauty. Magnificent. Tasted two times.
Tasted blind. Very dark crimson. Sophisticated nose in which Merlot clearly plays a part. Very mellow and round. Very flattering balance, with much more evolved fruit than most. Long and luscious. But precocious. (JR)
The 2005 La Mondotte is the only wine in this tasting that is hard as nails and virtually impenetrable. Deep, inward and super-concentrated, the 2005 offers notable density and inkiness, but not much else today. It will be interesting to see what a few more years in bottle brings. Today, the 2005 Mondotte shows plenty of power, but less in the way of finesse.