1985 Montrose
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Tasting notes
Tasted at the Montrose vertical in London, I think I was as surprised as Hervé Berland when the 1985 Montrose performed above expectations. Picked between 25 September and 9 October, it is mature in color with some bricking on the rim. The palate is a little rustic with red berries intermingling with bacon fat, singed leather, bay leaf and a slither of dried orange peel. The palate is very well balanced, fleshy in keeping with the style of the vintage, not as complex or as structured as the 1986, but certainly superior to the 1982 Montrose, with an effortless, nonchalant finish that beckons you back for another sip. Just a delicious Saint Estèphe that is à point. Tasted June 2016.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The only slightly disappointing bottle tasted at The Clove Club's Bordeaux Lunch (described as 'so uncool, it's cool'). Like many 1985s, it is now tasting a little tart; the fruit is definitely fading. I wondered initially if there weren't a bit of brett? There was certainly an impression of St-Estèphe 'stoniness' on the nose but it now seems a bit short and meagre. Interesting for the aromatic evolution but not glorious. (JR)
Dark crimson with an aged rim. Lovely fragrance initially and obvious Merlot ripeness plus a little unripe Cabernet on the nose although if anything the wine is very slightly simple. Sinewy, the wine’s fruit faded a bit in the glass and the acidity came to the fore. This does not seem a long distance runner and is much lighter in every way than the 1986. (JR)
Starting to soften now with currant, fresh herb and light oak character. Full and round, with good fruit and a silky finish. Wonderful length and finesse. A wonderful wine now, but will go on for a long time.--Non-blind Château Montrose vertical. Drink now through 2015. James Suckling, Wine Spectator 2006
About the producer
Ch. Montrose is one of two Second Growths from Saint-Estèphe and one of the most consistent producers in Bordeaux. The wines from this property are both elegant and powerful, and some of the Médoc's most age-worthy .